From Booklist
Lubet, a law professor, sees much in common between the human drama of the courtroom and the poker table, and he points out the ways that lawyers can benefit from studying strategies employed by good poker players. The book is divided into suits: diamonds representing maximizing winnings; clubs signifying controlling the opposition; spades, digging for information; and hearts, ethics and character. Going beyond using poker playing as a metaphor, within each section Lubet plumbs the lessons that can be learned from the game that can be transferred to the courtroom. The underlying principle is to distinguish between those who play the odds and those who gamble. Interspersed throughout, Lubet offers real-life experiences of gamblers playing the odds at poker and lawyers in historically significant cases gambling on particular legal strategies in their cases. Highly insightful and entertaining, this book brings a fresh perspective on the law and gambling. Vernon Ford
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
–This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
Review
“Lubet deals a winning hand with this entertaining and creative approach to gamesmanship. Anyone who negotiates, strategizes or bluffs–and who doesn’t–will benefit from this great read. You won’t be able to keep a poker-face when you read this funny and informative book.”–Alan M. Dershowitz, Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law, Harvard Law School
“A most clever mingling of the likes of legendary poker player Doyle “Texas Dolly” Brunson, with the master legal tactician Clarence Darrow. Juxtaposing the color and strategies of poker playing greats with the mastery of great lawyers in “trials of the century” creates a fascinating read for a gambler, lawyer, or just the average Joe.”–Oscar B. Goodman, Mayor, City of Las Vegas
“Steven Lubet creatively weaves together two ostensibly unconnected worlds. Highlighted by anecdotes from some of the greatest arguments in American trial history, coupled with memorable hands in the World Series of Poker, Lawyers’ Poker provides illuminating insights into strategic decisions in courtrooms and card tables across America.”–Kenneth W. Starr, Dean and Professor of Law, Pepperdine University School of Law
“What a great read–the trial lawyer’s lessons are precisely the same as the skilled poker player’s–the reader learns about history in both domains and smiles while being educated and entertained. This is a book for practitioners in the courtroom or the cardroom or those that want to be–or envy–either one. It is a true collector’s piece!”–Rikki Klieman, Court TV Anchor, trial attorney and best selling author
“Lawyers’ Poker is clear, entertaining and educational. It is a treasure trove of valuable lessons in competent trial advocacy, the art of negotiation and ethics–all told in a page-turning, storytelling fashion. As a bonus, the reader will also be introduced to the art of poker playing! Indeed, the parallels drawn are accurate. Both the neophyte and seasoned lawyer will love this book.”–Thomas A. Demetrio, Corboy & Demetrio, Member of the Inner Circle of Advocates
“Lawyers’ Poker is a fascinating read, as with great wit, skill and clarity Lubet moves from the poker room to the courtroom with impressive knowledge of the operation of both venues. As a veteran cross-examiner, I found Lubet’s thesis “straight” and his book “flush” with clever insight. Indeed, I “bet” I could argue the case he makes to a “full house”.”–Benjamin Brafman, criminal defense lawyer
“Professor Lubet’s insights about poker (and life) will make you a far better trial lawyer. I loved the book.”–Lawrence J. Fox, former Chair, ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility
“Every lawyer should play his cards right by reading Lubet’s book. It’s a safe bet the reader will come away with some great lessons in a courtroom and maybe even a tip or two at the card table.”–Robert A. Clifford, former Chair, ABA Section of Litigation
“Any attorney who has ever tried a case or who aspires to be a litigator will want to read this book and learn more about how success at the poker table and winning in the courtroom are related. Reading Lawyers’ Poker is a complete treat.”–Trial Magazine
See all Editorial Reviews
