Courts and Criminals   By: Arthur Cheney Train (1875-1945)

Courts and Criminals by Arthur Cheney Train is a fascinating and insightful exploration of the American legal system from the perspective of an experienced lawyer. Train, a prominent attorney of his time, presents a collection of true crime stories and courtroom dramas that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The book delves into various cases that Train had encountered throughout his career, shedding light on the intricacies of the legal process and the complex world of criminals. With a captivating storytelling style, Train manages to bring these cases to life, taking readers on a journey through the courtroom, the minds of the accused, and the strategies employed by both defense and prosecution.

One of the strengths of this book lies in Train's ability to strike a balance between the intriguing details of each case and his keen observations on the legal system itself. Through his narratives, he highlights the flaws, loopholes, and peculiarities inherent in the American courts. He also offers valuable insights into the criminal mind, exploring the motivations and actions of those who find themselves entangled in the justice system.

Train's immense knowledge of the law is evident throughout the book, as he eloquently explains legal concepts and procedures, making the content both accessible and enjoyable for readers. His extensive experience shines through, providing a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by lawyers and judges in their pursuit of justice.

Moreover, Courts and Criminals offers readers a glimpse into the social and cultural context surrounding each case. Train's selection of stories covers a broad range of offenses, including murder, fraud, and theft, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of crime during the time period in which he practiced law. This contextualization adds depth and richness to the narratives, allowing readers to see beyond the courtroom walls and into the societal factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

One minor drawback of the book is its occasional use of legal jargon, which might confuse readers who are less familiar with legal terminology. However, Train consistently ensures that these terms are explained, mitigating any potential confusion and making the content accessible to a wider audience.

Overall, Courts and Criminals is a compelling and enlightening read for anyone interested in the workings of the American legal system and the fascinating stories that unfold within its walls. Arthur Cheney Train's expertise and storytelling ability shine through, making this book a must-read for both legal professionals and true crime enthusiasts alike.

First Page:

Now, although many thousands of equally harmless persons had been similarly treated, this particular outrage was made the occasion of a vehement protest to the mayor of the city by a certain member of the judiciary, who pointed out that such things in a civilized community were shocking beyond measure, and called upon the mayor to remove the commissioner of police and all his staff of deputy commissioners for openly violating the law which they were sworn to uphold. But, the commissioner of police, who had sometimes enforced the penal statutes in a way to make him unpopular with machine politicians, saw nothing wrong in what he had done, and, what was more, said so most outspokenly... Continue reading book >>