In Search of the Ethical Lawyer by Adam Dodek, Paperback | Indigo Chapters

In this equally inspiring and troubling book, leading lawyers and legal academics draw on case studies, biography, and memoir to explore the relationship between ethics and the law in Canada. The stories are revealing. Adam Dodek revisits Smith v. Jones to explore what can happen when client confidentiality and the public good come into conflict. Allan Hutchinson examines the poor choices made by serial killer Paul Bernardo’s defense lawyer. David Asper recounts the fight to free David Milgaard from jail, including mistakes he made along the way. Richard Devlin celebrates the life and career of “Rocky" Jones, a black lawyer from Halifax who battled racism both outside and inside the law. Janine Benedet demonstrates how women’s issues are marginalized within the legal profession. Constance Backhouse reveals how historically lawyers obstructed Jews, people of colour, Aboriginal people, and women from entering law. Lorne Sossin questions why so few lawyers donate their time pro bono. Trevor Farrow raises troubling questions about access to justice within in Canada. Alice Woolley reflects on pressures within Canada’s legal culture. Brent Cotter recalls the life and work of Ian Scott, an Attorney General who used his position to transform society. And Micah Rankin critiques the Law Society of BC’s decision to punish lawyer Gerry Laaraker for criticizing another lawyer who he believed engaged in legal intimidation and blackmail. Highly readable and engaging, In Search of the Ethical Lawyer brings to life the ethical challenges lawyers face and redefines what it means be a “good" lawyer. | In Search of the Ethical Lawyer by Adam Dodek, Paperback | Indigo Chapters