Essential change, but unlikely to happen.

A well-written, thought-provoking book whose premise I fully support. However, the reality of implementing meaningful change is remote. The reason is simple, unless we implement fundamental economic reform, which changes the underlying philosophy by which we run our economy, and thus society, change to our judicial system will not occur.

Our Free Market economy sets up the circumstances which perpetuate these adverse and perverse outcomes. Free market economies strive to reduce the size of government and thus their ability to provide adequate social support in its myriad forms. It also strives to outsource government functions (such as prison services), so it is in private enterprise’s interest to increase, not reduce, prison populations. Therefore, before you attempt to change the judicial system, change the economic situation.

Much of the reform Chris refers to has taken place in countries with large (relative) governments using progressive tax systems to fund these schemes. Until we adopt a similar social market economy where common good is the central theme of our endeavours rather than the self-interest of Free Markets, I’m afraid Chris is barking at the moon.

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Outstanding Listen

This is my first time listening to an Audiobook in full, I couldn't stop listening.

Chris Daw has highlighted deep-rooted flaws in our common views and implementation of Criminal Justice. I hope his ideas and observations receive the due consideration they deserve, and that those who support the system as it stands are able to gain new insight from Chris's extensive experience and expertise.

As a narrator, Chris has a most pleasing tone which captivates the listener and brings each case to life, as the listener hangs on his every word.

I can't recommend this book highly enough. Thank you Chris.

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EYE OPENING AND LIFE CHANGING

This examination of the way British Justice is administered is shocking and life changing. Step by step Chris Daw QC takes the system apart and suggests far more effective ways to put it back together again. What you get6 is a compelling argument for a complete overhaul of an outdated, outmoded and utterly unsuitable justice system.

Daw regularly makes comparisons between the UK and US system and his argument against the UK going down the same route as the Americans is brutally honest and terrifying. The United States is a shambles when it comes to administering justice and its prison population is now the equivalent to one of the largest cities in the country. American justice serves no one but corrupt or power hungry politicians and self service corporations who keep the system going for personal gain.

This is a book everyone needs to read. And in the Covid era - and whenever we emerge from it - its ideas and philosophy will prove more important.

On the performance side, Daw is a Barrister not a voice over artist but his delivery is honest and very easy to listen to. I played my audio version at 1.5x normal speed. It works really well.

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Fascinating

I had the pleasure of meeting the author and was intrigued to listen to his book even though it’s not a topic I would normally look to read about. I couldn’t stop listening to it, even put it on at 3am as I wanted to know what happened in the cases. There were some very sad cases which make you think about criminals differently. Really changed my opinions of the legal system and what justice means and how it should be achieved. I always prefer when an author reads their book when they can, and this was delivered brilliantly. Would recommend.

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Very informative

Enjoyed Chris narrating his own book , informative n the law , maybe more stories would have been nice but still really enjoyed

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Compelling and startling insight into a failed system. Excellent ideas for change.

This book is provides a compelling and logical insight into the “justice” system and its key failings which are described along with great stories to underline these failings.

Justice at present is a misnomer and Chris provides a fresh look into how the system needs to be aligned with the name. Crime and punishment cannot continue to be measured and delivered as they currently are and Chris sets out how to start addressing this.

Highly recommended.

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One easy listening of great interest

if there were more C Daw we would certainly live in a more empathetic , rational and honest world and not just that one of applied justice.

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A MUST read for every single person in the World

I have nearly finished this in just a few days.

It is refreshing, honest, true, inspiring, fresh, compelling, apathetic, understanding, and bloody brilliant.

Whatever walk of the path of life you are currently on - stop and listen/read this book.

I do not disagree with any of what is said infact the opposite, I fully AGREE with everything proposed - as someone who left the criminal bar disheartened about recent events - thank goodness for this book. Finally, someone has come forward and told the world what it needed to wake up and hear.

They don't make you a QC for any reason - and it really does show in this book - Chris, the criminal bar professional, lawyers, musicians, writers, politicians all thank you for making your professional knowledge accessible. EVERYONE NEEDS TO ACCESS THIS GOLD. How fantastic. Now thankfully everybody can access the law, how it got here, why it is here and why ultimately we are in trouble if we don't all raise our voices, open our hearts and minds and demand progress.

THANK YOU CHRIS!!

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Compassionate, thoughtful and thought provoking.

Whilst I do not agree with everything proposed in this fine book it is clear he has made an overwhelming case for radical reform. A justice system run by politicians is a justice system at the mercy of populism.

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Outstanding

Politicians and lawmakers should listen to Chris Daw’s book, take notes on his findings and let the criminal justice system of the future be designed to be fit for purpose. This will not happen until that purpose is identified as being creating a safer and kinder society. Sadly, I suspect that criminals will remain the underdogs who atone for society’s sins for some time to come.

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