Top 7 Books All Lawyers Should Read

“If you don’t like reading, you haven’t found the right book” - JK Rowling

1. To Kill A Mockingbird – Harper Lee

This fictional book places the reader in a small town during the 1930’s in Alabama where racism, inequality, slavery and discrimination were a fundamental problem. In Harper lee’s classic novel, the theme of justice is continuous throughout. The main character Atticus Finch, who is a lawyer, teaches his children how to identify the difference between right and wrong even when presented with questionable challenges. Today, individuals are still experiencing the themes explored in this book. Many lessons can be learned during this story, and one may question after finishing the novel what type of lawyer they would like to be. If justice, equality fairness and freedom are important to you then this is the book that will impact your perspective on one’s human rights.

2. The New Lawyer’s Handbook: 101 Things They Don’t Teach You In Law School – Karen Thalacker

The title of this book speaks for itself. If you consider yourself to be at the early stages of your law career this book will offer you various forms of advice.Karen Thalacker lays out the fundamental practice foundations for lawyers. Whilst ‘law school prepares you to think like a lawyer, write like a lawyer, and research like a lawyer’ there are important skills you need to survive in a law firm. This could be as simple as handling a client or being better equipped.

3. The Secret Barrister

The anonymous author discusses the truth behind the Criminal Justice System in England and Wales. If you are yet to pick up the best-selling book now is the time. The main message the author wants us to understand is that the Criminal Justice System can often fail individuals its meant to protect. The content of this book will give you exposure to the current legal system.

4. The Rule of Law – Tom Bingham

Heard the phrase ‘The rule of law’ many times? Unsure what it really means? Lord Bingham identified the core principle of the rule of law in simple language by covering the 8 principles. Not only does Bingham examine English law but also history which dates back to the Magna Carter. If you’re looking for a modern approach to reading about the law, this book is definitely for you.

5. The Happy Lawyer: Making a Good Life In The Law – Nancy Levit & Douglas O.Linder

Is balancing work and personal life difficult for you? The Happy Lawyer addresses this issue whilst providing solutions on how to become happier and have a successful career in law. If you’re looking to implement boundaries or become more satisfied with your profession this might be a recommendation for you.

6. Successful Solicitor: Get Ahead of The Game As a Junior Corporate Lawyer – Kathrine Cousins

Kathrine shares her experience on surviving as a junior lawyer while providing practical advice. If you are worried about making mistakes or just nervous Kathrine’s informative book can educate you on areas, you probably have concerns about. The biggest takeaway from this book is that no question is stupid and you’ll only learn if you ask!

7. Solo by Choice: How To Be The Lawyer You Always Wanted To Be – Carolyn Elefant

Considering other prospects in law can be daunting as you may not know where to start. Carolyn provides the perfect resource for lawyers looking to start their own practice. The information goes beyond the pages and offers readers links to additional articles and resources to assist them on their journey to becoming ‘solo’.

Mary Kukoyi