Adventures in Law and Justice: Exploring Big Legal Questions in Everyday Life

A book that makes law and justice both relevant and alive for everyone about the ideas and ideals of law. Containing a down-to-earth explanation of topical and newsworthy law-and-justice dilemmas, it is written for readers interested in public affairs and current events, as well as those grappling with ‘big picture’ issues in law and government as students, professionals or concerned citizens. This book serves as an introduction, a critique, and a thought-provoking read all in one.

Bryan Horrigan is a Professor of Law at the University of Canberra and a legal consultant to business and government. He completed his doctorate at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar, and has published widely in books, journals, and newspaper articles. He is the Director of the National Centre for Corporate Law and Policy Research and Deputy Director of the National Institute for Governance in Canberra.

A book that makes law and justice both relevant and alive for everyone about the ideas and ideals of law. Contains a down-to-earth explanation of topical and newsworthy law-and-justice dilemmas. Written for readers interested in public affairs and current events, as well as those grappling with ‘big picture’ issues in law and government as students, professionals or concerned citizens, this book serves as an introduction, a critique, and a thought-provoking read all in one.

Vividly illustrated with Australian and international examples, it tells law’s stories, exposes law’s myths, and delves into major law-and-justice questions which affect us all. Some of the questions the book addresses, include:

• Should Australia become a republic or stay a constitutional monarchy?
• Is the legal system in crisis?
• Should Australia have a bill of rights?
• Is native title legally dead in the water?
• Can the law decide which conjoined twin should be saved when only one can live?
• Can someone in pain lawfully end his or her life with medical assistance?
• Does Australia’s involvement in the war against terrorism threaten democratic freedoms and international law?
• Should companies have social obligations legally imposed on them?

Note: Bryan Horrigan is willing to contribute to tutorials, lectures, community events, book clubs and make personal appearances with regard to this title.