Rough Justice: Do we have the law we deserve?

by Wendy Joseph

What is justice ? Do our legal courts dispense it? Has our judicial process improved, for the victims, the accused and for society? What more must be done to ensure genuine justice is carried out in future?

Following on the heels of her bestseller Unlawful Killings, Old Bailey judge Wendy Joseph KC places her readers at the heart of the courtroom drama, and asks questions of the institutions tasked to deliver what is right and fair.

With a text that is vivid, fast-paced and utterly absorbing, with all the hallmarks of a twisty thriller, she keep readers on tenterhooks as they await the verdicts of some of the most shocking and harrowing cases this murder trial judge has presided over. But, as she contrasts modern courtroom tales with eerily similar cases and miscarriages of justice from many years ago, could the most chilling story of all be that the lessons of the past have yet to be learned?

Unpicking the fatal foibles of our legal system, in Rough Justice Joseph asks British courts to face up to their failings, as she makes her own compelling case for change.

Genres: Nonfiction, Law, Audiobook, Crime, True Crime, British Literature

354 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 18, 2024

Reviews

[Sarah Faichney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating piece of work by Wendy Joseph KC. Surely the first case presented in the book is compelling evidence for media coverage of any (and all) sexual assault trials, given the outcome? Throughout the book, source material is presented in a measured and sensitive manner. Joseph gives us insight into Court process in language which makes the book accessible for all. I like the comparisons with old cases, which allows us to reflect on how (and whether) things have changed. Through writing this book, Joseph seeks to ask whether we are achieving justice. I found ‘Rough Justice’ extremely interesting and Wendy Joseph's writing style very engaging. I also appreciated the focus on women. It's a book I would highly recommend and read again.

[Lucy Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book focuses on four cases about women and girls to look at the court process.

I found her comparisons of current cases with historical cases really interesting.

Legal systems are explained very well and make it very easy reading for the non-law educated.

[Vicky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGallery for this advance copy of Rough Justice.

Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC writes beautifully. I previously enjoyed her debut book, Unlawful Killings.

Joseph has a knack for explaining complex law concepts succinctly for the lay person, which is clearly a skill gained from years of instructing juries. She always shows great humanity towards all who enter her court, although she doesn’t suffer fools gladly, including high level ‘silks’.

The cases she covers are complex and thought provoking, and never clear cut, which reflects the criminal justice system. The loss of one star in this review is for the lack of closure on a few of the cases she included in this book. It would have been good to know what the verdicts and sentences were in those cases.

The comparisons with historical similar cases was a good touch in terms of seeing how far our justice system has come over hundreds of years.

I enjoyed the insights of what it is like to be a juror, as well as anyone that has a role at The Old Bailey. So many people have parts to play in criminal trials, and Joseph explains and covers these parts beautifully.

It is clear that Joseph cares deeply about justice, it’s history and where it heads in the future. She raises useful and interesting points for improvement and development. An engaging and very well written read.

[Ailidh · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think my low rating is more due to mismatched expectations than this truly being a bad book. I went in expecting a nuanced reflection on lessons from an experienced judge in the way that the court systems betray the most vulnerable, told through the lens of actual stories. I got a set of stories where the anonymisation strayed into embellishment, and no real reflection beyond "men commit crimes, women are victims, isn't that sad, and also crime used to occur a long time ago too!". I struggle to understand what this book was hoping to achieve beyond appealing to true crime fans who I'm sure would gobble it up. The editing was also shockingly poor, for example in the second story, discussing a legal concept as if introducing it for the first time, despite the same concept being pivotal to the first story.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read. Superbly well written. A fascinating look at criminal justice and the system of justice from a unique perspective. A worthy successor to Unlawful Killings, utilising the same device of fictitious cases based on the authors intimate knowledge and experience.

[Ami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this, and I found each case to be so incredibly interesting.

I am very glad that I got to see the author live before I read this because it made the experience feel more surreal.

I will be reading her previous book - just for fun.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four very different cases are presided over by an experienced and respected High Court Judge, Her Honour Wendy Joseph, all of which highlight the complexities and potential failings of the British legal system. Some parts are referenced back to similar cases as far back as two or three hundred years ago. Elaboration of the legal system’s procedures is explained in everyday layman’s terms which makes for an easier read.

The author has managed to include in her writing hints of non-prejudicial humour, to otherwise four very serious criminal cases at the Old Bailey, with her own unique personality in the telling. This is a truly enlightening and engaging book and has certainly made me more aware of the responsibilities and challenges faced by High Court Judges, which far exceeds their often misunderstood roles.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Random House for this e-APC. The above comments are mine alone. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who has a general interest in British law.

[Me · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do we have the law we deserve?” This is the first of many questions asked by Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC. Featured prominently on the cover of her second book, Rough Justice, this question neatly sums up the concerns shared by many of the functioning of the criminal justice system.

Throughout the book I was impressed by the care the author has taken to break down the complexities of legal procedures and language without oversimplifying the content. This well maintained balance ensures the book is accessible, yet remains engaging for those with some knowledge or experience. I also felt that the author’s ability to inject light humour at appropriate points (largely when dealing with counsel) helped to lighten the load of what was at times a very heavy subject matter, and therefore made the book a more pleasant read.

The author first takes care to introduce the readers to the concept and purpose of a criminal trial, as well as the roles of the professionals; such as judges, counsel, and various courthouse staff. Following on are four chapters each based around a case, and more specifically the women and girls involved, each chapter exploring various issues of the law, court system, and the role societal beliefs have on the ability to ensure both fairness and justice.

As explained in the preface, out for respect for those involved the cases in this book aren’t actual cases. Rather they are stories the author created, drawing on the details of numerous trials she has presided over. Through these chapters we explore issues such as grooming, modern slavery, domestic abuse and coercive/controlling behaviour - considering not only the impact on the individual, but also how these issues play a significant role in a trial - especially the impact they have on juries. We also explore the protections available to the vulnerable (regardless of whether they are victim, witness, or defendant), and how these changes came about over time. To contextualise these changes, the author utilises her access to the Old Bailey archives, drawing comparisons between historical cases and her current cases. I found the critical comparisons of not only what has changed over time, but also considerations of how far we still have to go to achieve justice for all, very engaging to read about.

As the author gave her final thoughts in the conclusion, there was much focus on how the background of a victim, witness or defendant - plays a leading role in the journey to the point of the alleged crime(s) being committed. However, what I was stuck most by was the difficulties of ensuring that in a trial, both sides are balanced in order to promote fairness and justice. Impartiality, which the author radiates, nonetheless must take its toll when presiding over highly distressing cases where what is the law, and what is just, seems at irreconcilable odds.

“Are we achieving justice for all? Clearly not. Are we even coming closer to it than we were in the past? The most one can say is, perhaps. But here is the good news. I wouldn’t be writing and no one would be reading a book like this unless we had got to the point where we recognised the faults and cared about making them better.”

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tad dry at times, but an interesting look into the justice system.

Review Taken From The Pewter Wolf Reads
***eProof Gifted by UK publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review/reaction***

Old Bailey judge Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC talks the reader through four very different cases, each looking at the women in the dock and wonders how easy it is for any one of us to be in a court, whether that be a member of the jury, a witness or the person on trial. And, as she looks into these four cases, she discovers horrifying similarities between now and possible miscarriages of justice from years ago and wonders if the law has changed and how the law affects the marginalised and the easily exploited?

A few years ago, I audiobooked Unlawful Killings: Life, Love and Murder: Trials at the Old Bailey, Her Honour Wendy Joseph’s KC debut non-fiction and it was one of my fave reads of that year as I found it a fascinating insight into the legal system (though it did make me question if I would be the right person to do jury duty if I was ever asked, even though I would see it as my civic duty). So, when I discovered that she wrote another book, I requested it on NetGalley (even though my NetGalley Review Rating is not that great).

I am going to be honest, I didn’t like this as much as I did Unlawful Killings, but I think the reason for this is because I audiobooked Unlawful Killings and I read Rough Justice, giving them both a very different feeling. I think, if I had audiobook Rough Justice, I would have enjoyed it more as the information would have been easier for me to understand and digest. Reading this, at times, felt very overwhelming and dry.

What was a surprise (I think I forgot this was in Unlawful Killings) was the humour. It was dry and sarcastic and the type of humour I quite enjoy reading in crime. It also was a nice balance against the four cases, each looking at women being at the heart of the case. Each case is different and very dark: sexual assault of a minor, child grooming linked to County Lines, murder, domestic abuse in a marriage, PTSD, child endangerment and coercive control. Because of this, at times, reading this is uncomfortable and you had to put the book down.

I did like this and was surprised how it made me think about the law and the justice system, which is struggling in the UK due to a number of reasons (better people can explain this in far greater detail than I) and whether the law is helping vulnerable people or is making it hard for people to get justice.

I do hope Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC does write another book (though I will be listening to audiobook, me thinks) and I may, one day, be brave and try to read more non-fiction novels about the UK legal/political systems … we shall see…

[Jonathan Pool · Rating 3 out of 5]

Published in 2024 this second work by Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC reprises her memories of her time at Judge in London’s Old Bailey, and presents the reader with thoughts band ideas to improve the legal system in the England as it stands. Wendy Joseph largely reprises her very successful 2022 writing debut Unlawful Killings and I don’t think there’s much more to be gained from reading both books.
Are we a more just society? Are we any closer to achieving justice? Such broad questions surely need to receive a definitive response, subjective though it may be. I fear that Wendy Joseph sits on the fence.

Reflecting her own pastoral work, Wendy Joseph focuses on justice and women. The four (amalgamated) cases that she chooses in this book all concern female lead protagonists;
Sexual abuse of a minor; husbands and their wives; sons and mothers, and organised gangs
Wendy Joseph points out, as she looks back in time at precedents spread over centuries that ultimately little has changed. Up to 1913 79% of Old Bailey cases (by definition the most serious crimes of murder, manslaughter and serious sexual offences) concern a man. Today (2024) it’s 79%!!

So what to do? “rather than prosecute men shouldn’t we spend more in trying to stop them offending?” One idea put forward by Wendy Joseph is that the School curriculum needs to change?
Alas, at a time when “arts and humanities” are being questioned in favour of (supposedly) more directly useful vocational academic disciplines I fear that Wendy Joseph’s very fluffy suggestion is not going to find any new traction.

If it is the reader’s hope that reading this book will shine light on ideas for the prevention of the worst of human behaviour then I think you will be disappointed. Maybe even despairing
Read the book for fascinating individual cases, and through words experience what its like in a court when two sides of an argument, when presented, break down the certainty that we often feel when assessing just one set of facts.

Some of the book’s lighter moments were welcome (and surprised me). Juries are mercurial entities. Wilful, distracted, and likely to disrupt the flow of the court procedures. Judges in their lunch hours (this in murder cases) take lunch with visitors brought into the dining area as the sheriffs’ “guests” then return to the ongoing case.
I heard Wendy Joseph speak at an event and it was interesting that she said the question most often fired her way is whether she is in favour of bring back the death penalty. Read this book and recognise the uncertainty that surrounds even the most (seemingly) cut-and-dried cases, and you might think again about that ultimate sanction.

[Steve Angelkov · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rough Justice is an enthralling deep dive into the demanding and often unpredictable world of the judiciary. Through her personal experience as a judge, Joseph offers readers a rare glimpse into the courtroom's inner workings, exposing the immense pressures of making life-altering decisions in the face of uncertainty.

What makes this book stand out is its insightful portrayal of the fine line judges must walk. Joseph doesn't shy away from discussing the emotional toll and moral complexities involved in decisions that can feel as though they rest on instinct as much as evidence. This humanizes the judicial role, allowing readers to grasp the weight of responsibility that comes with upholding justice while navigating the imperfections of the legal system.

Her writing style is refreshingly candid and engaging, combining real-life cases with moments of levity and deep reflection. Joseph's ability to balance humor with gravity makes this book as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. It's the perfect read for anyone curious about the intricacies of law, the unpredictability of human behavior, or the challenges of making decisions that can shape lives.

[Vicuña · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Unlawful Killings by Wendy Joseph and was thrilled to have the opportunity of an early review copy of her latest book, Rough Justice, Her Honour has a wonderful way with words; she makes complex legal issues understandable for the lay reader and writes with compassion and humour. These qualities make enjoyable reading.

We like to believe that Britain has the best legal system in the world, but numerous high profile cases have raised doubts about the way in which justice is interpreted and applied. This book examines four very different cases in detail with the legal arguments presented and the issues raised explored. She draws on comparison with earlier similar cases and raises troubling questions as to whether or how much our legal system has improved and learned from past mistakes. Her insights are authoritative and the writing throughout is assured and direct. She seems a rare individual who has integrity and honour in every sense. I’ve really enjoyed this book and it gives much room for thought and reflection. Absolutely brilliant.

[Gem ~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having thoroughly enjoyed reading Unlawful Killings I was thrilled to see a new book by the save author. Continuing with the same amusing, highly informative and relatable style of writing, Rough Justice presents firsthand experience of how justice is delivered in the biggest court in the country, The Old Bailey in London. The author has many years experience as a KC and now judge and brings this extensive knowledge and passion for the legal system to readers but with an honest approach to how the complexities of life, the law, jurors and witnesses ,victims and defendants can all mean that justice can be certainly difficult to serve.
I highly recommend reading this book to give such an appreciation for the system we are fortunate to have and maybe where there is still room for its growth and improvement as times change.

[Charlie Medcalf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rough Justice by Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC takes the reader on a journey of some of the most shocking, surprising and frustrating cases tried by Joseph at the central criminal court, more commonly known as the Old Bailey, with lessons on the law throughout. Joesph explains the law with the help of four real-life case studies. This book includes a man who is accused of raping and sexual assault of an under sixteen, a young girl who was the victim of exploitation/modern slavery who disposed of a dismembered body, a female victim of domestic violence who killed her husband and a father and grandmother of a young boy who was injured with a shotgun which the defendants are accused of having in their possession.

For my full review please visit- https://cembookportal.blogspot.com/20...

[zoe Hitchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thought provoking read.
Wendy Joseph KC is an Old Bailey judge who writes in such a manner which explains complex legal matters in an easy to understand way.
This book highlights the contrast in the law and how it works and the asks the question is it fair?
Joseph’s writing is easy to read and understand ,making the pages fly by .
The spotlight shines on the failings of the legal system and the need for change and highlights miscarriages of justice in years gone by.
Whilst showing similar cases today and the people involved are still being failed , why haven’t lessons be learnt?
Read it you won’t be disappointed!
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers.

[✰matthew✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was my second book by this author and again i thoroughly appreciated it, i was going to say enjoyed but that doesn’t feel entirely appropriate.

this book looks at women and girls, primarily at crimes they are thought to have committed. it also looks at how male crime affects women and girls.

the author is obviously extremely knowledgeable and experienced and this shines through.

i liked the way this book was written, the reader learns about the whole courtroom, about the judge and many other elements too. the parts specific about law are completely understandable to the standard reader.

(i didn’t read this book on kindle / ebook but there isn’t a physical copy available to list on gr.)

[Greville Waterman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully thought through and written book. Wendy Jospeh was one of the country's top barristers and judges before retirement and she is now sharing her wisdom about the criminal justice system and how it works - or doesn't.

This is her second such book and it is comprehensive, forensic and compassionate, focusing mainly on crimes by and against women and how they are dealt with by the system.

This is something that is a must read for anyone involved in or fascinated by the law and it is rare that you find quite a technical book that flows so well and imparts its message with devastating face yet is still dryly humorous when appropriate.

[Chris Liu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book that the author has successfully displayed the different facets of criminal court cases through 4 different stories. Every characters in the stories are so lively that you seems to be able to feel their struggles and concerns. I love how the author perfectly shaped the different shareholders of a criminal court case - the barristers, the judge, the jury, the defendant and even the council. It uncovers the unusual and uncommon point of view of the day-to-day operation of criminal court.

This book is definitely insightful and makes you reflect on possible improvement for our current law system.

[ElegantJo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent exposition of the law and practice in the Old Bailey, especially in relation to female defendants. This is no dry legal text, but a very readable and carefully thought-out examination of the law, relating to murder but also of circumstances, both practical and personal, that may have an impact on trials for murder. It was well-written, very informative, and incisive as well as thought-provoking. It raises serious questions in response to its title, questions we should all be concerned to be addressing.

 

[Verity Halliday · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Honour uses some fictional and some historical cases at the Old Bailey to explore the development of the English justice system, particularly as it affects vulnerable members of society.

We get an insight into her role as a judge, including behind-the-scenes revelations about court procedures, catering, and what the lawyers say when the jury isn’t present.

A fascinating look at a difficult job.

[Molly Osborne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not what I expected it to be, but an interesting starting point to how the judicial system may not function in a way that favours everyone equally. Does hold your hand quite a bit, and a lot of the points made felt quite obvious to me. However, it definitely could be useful for people coming at this from different perspectives to see why vulnerable women struggle to give (or want to give) good evidence.

[Artie LeBlanc · Rating 4 out of 5]

A second and very good book from a former judge at the Old Bailey. She has a great talent for presenting the complexities and perplexities of the law in an approachable and readable style.

Personally, I didn't gain much from the comparisons with (very) historic cases, but others may be OK with this.

[Keely · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3

I really enjoy Wendy's writing. It's clear, cohesive and interesting. She makes complicated jargon seem a lot more simple. I enjoyed learning about the cases she picked.I really liked the fact, she took one example from recent and one example from the past. It was interesting to learn about the changes and how simple they were, yet did a lot to help people.

[GM · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this more reflective than Unlawful Killings. Makes sense given that her husband passed away recently and she has retired from Old Bailey since the last book.

more focused on Women rights and their role in society / the law, including the fact women only gained the right to jury service in 1920.

[Steven Quayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wish I could find more books like this one.
Thought provoking and easy to engage with.

Light humour and liberal use of sarcasm throughout combats the hard hitting and sensitive details of featured cases, used to discuss points of law.

I enjoyed this one just as much as the author’s first book and hope another is in the works.

[Elizabeth Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely gripping tales of life from the bench. I devoured this in two sittings. Not only does she report on the proceedings but asks us to rethink what we are achieving with our current justice system. Victims are often women and can appear either in the Dock or the Witness box. loved it and it made me reflect on my own views too.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book focuses on woman in criminal history past and present and how the legal system has received them. Wendy Joseph KC an Old Bailey Judge has done a very clever job of this book. It gives you an insight into how the law has treated woman over the years and gives food for thought.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has firmed my opinion that Wendy Joseph is one of the greatest non-fiction authors of late. Each trial is written eloquently in a way that pulls on the heart strings and appeals to the logical side of the brain without ever seeming boring.

[Emma Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant - her honour Wendy Joseph has done it again. Brilliant, thoughtful, compassionate, entertaining narrative. Dealing with a hugely evocative topic in a sensitive manner. Her writing is excellent.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have an interest in the law and having seen and heard WJ talk about this book I wanted to read it. Nothing too legal or hard to follow. In fact it read in many ways like fiction. Fascinating insight and kept me interested through all 4 cases.