Law 101: Everything You Need to Know About American Law, Fourth Edition 4th Edition

This was the textbook for an introductory law class that I took as part of a Master in Legal Studies program (not a JD program, but a degree for average people who don't want to be lawyers but want to know about the law for work). My husband is an attorney and law professor. This book was enjoyed by both of us -- by me, whose day job is marketing, and by him, who sometimes has a hard time explaining legal concepts at ground level. He loved how concise and articulate Feinman was, while I loved that it allowed me to better understand what my husband does on a day-to-day basis and the greater purpose of our legal system. It's very easy to digest and would be a fantastic choice for anyone considering law school, or anyone who just doesn't "get" why the law is the way it is.

In the United States it seems as though the law is everywhere. We are expected to follow the rules of the road when driving, not to steal when at the grocery store, and treat others appropriately. The law also attracts national attention as the Supreme Court grapples with issues and high-profile trials happen in courtrooms around the country. Sometimes it seems like the law is too complicated and inaccessible to the average citizen. However, this need not be and with Law 101 anyone with an interest in the basics of law can get an idea of how it works.The law can be incredibly complicated, but Law 101 offers some of the most important aspects of it in the most important areas. Feinman explains that the book is meant to look at the same material that an average, first year law student would see. He covers some major subjects such as constitutional law regarding things like freedom of speech and freedom of religion. He also looks at tort law, property law, and contract law. In discussing these subjects he cites many Supreme Court cases and cases from lower courts and state courts that have shaped our understanding and application of American law. In relation to these subjects he also explains civil procedure and how parties go through litigation. Finally, he covers criminal law and criminal procedure, explaining how the state can convict and punish a person and for what reasons.I previously read the third edition of this book a few years ago and enjoyed it very much. This new, fourth edition includes some recent additions such as the latest Supreme Court decisions regarding the Affordable Care Act (also known as Obamacare), the George Zimmerman trial, and the law's difficulty in being applied to the Internet.This is a very informative book that any American can read to get a basic understanding of the law. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn something about the law.

Author gives a comprehensive coverage of what you would cover in a paralegal program in capsule form. Also, it is a good read. Interesting and engaging style of writing. It is a lay person guide to the law. The only thing I did not like is that the author ended the book with a series of questions instead of trying all of the information in the chapters together. Hence the four stars instead of five.

Arrives in good condition, like the book, good value for money

This is basically a lay person's law degree in a single, easy to read and understand volume. Mr. Feinman avoids the usual legalese and writes in a way that's actually understandable by the average person. He adequately covers every subject that most readers are likely to encounter. The best part: Even though it\s always wise to consult an attorney on legal matters, this book fully equipped me to ask the right questions of my attorney and to develop the best legal approach based on a sound understanding of the legal principles that apply to a particular situation. One of the best book investments I've ever made - A+++..

I'm currently an undergrad junior studying engineering and thinking of law school, and this book was amazing in that it not only explains the concepts in a clear way, but also goes into sufficient detail to get you interested and thinking about the law. It teaches you the basics of a wide range of laws, from tort/contract/property law to criminal law. It also uses actual cases to help readers understand how the law actually works, including its limitations. Obviously, this book is not a law school level textbook, but it's not meant to be one! It's meant for someone like myself (thinking of law school), and it does an excellent job at it.Also, I'm taking a "law course for undergrads" at Cornell this semester, and I can say for sure that this book is at a very similar level, in case anyone wants a comparison. There's a ton of overlap so it's definitely helping me in the class.

Interesting

So-so reference book. Subtitle says "Everything You Need to Know ... " -- I should sue for false advertising!!

it was interesting

Good legible and understandable.

Good book