The Judge's Lawyer

by Dylan H. Jones

He freed a monster. Now the city wants his head.

Mitchum Sweeney is fifty, separated from his wife, and one bad hand away from financial ruin.

By day, he’s a judicial staff attorney at Oakland’s Superior Court. By night, he’s dodging creditors and chasing lost causes. But when his expert testimony sets cartel kingpin Paco Castillo free, Mitch becomes a target — for the union, the FBI, and Paco himself.

Castillo has one final demand: find his missing wife, and Mitch’s mountain of gambling debt disappears.

But when Mitch’s search uncovers evidence of a child trafficking ring buried in the justice system itself, the stakes turn lethal.

As bullets fly and bodies drop, Mitch is forced to reckon with his past and confront impossible choices — because the truth won’t set him free, and saving the people he loves might mean damning himself for good . . .

A razor-sharp legal thriller packed with corruption, blackmail, and moral reckoning.

Genres: Legal Thriller, Crime

422 pages, Paperback

First published August 20, 2025

Reviews

[Natalie "Curling up with a Coffee and a Kindle" Laird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dylan H Jones is a debut author who I hadn't heard of, but when I saw the title, I HAD to read it. I'm a sucker for any legal thriller since reading John Grisham in his early days.
This was great! I wasn't sure what to expect from Jones, but I am definitely impressed. The pacing was fast and interesting, and I stayed engaged through the whole book. I loved the characters, and the courtroom drama scenes were exactly what I love about the genre.
Loved it. Can't wait for more from this author!

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new author for me but any book that references ‘Joy Division’ within the first few chapters was probably going to be a winner for me….

Seriously though this was as sharp as the Gucci suits worn by one of the characters and a real thrill thriller where the question ‘Do you cross from the good to the not so good side if the prize seems worth it?’is one of the questions MItch,the main character finds himself asking pretty much from the start after unintentionally helping a gangster as he is called on to give evidence on Bodycams,Mitch then finds his family under threat and has big decisions to make

I liked Mitch,flaws and all,and his humour even in the trickiest situations,he was a good guy gone a bit askew and wasn’t quite sure what to do to remedy it

It is a wordy book,not a bad thing but worth noting it’s very descriptive in dialogue and characters

Exciting and fast moving this book explored many moral and legal themes and all told was an unusually frank look at human dilemmas as well as interesting legal procedures,corruption and addiction

Enjoyable

[Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

A huge thank you to Zoe at ZooLoo Book Tours for having me on this tour.

I absolutely adore legal thrillers and this one was no exception. I found it to be very fast paced, full of action and generally a great book to pick up and put down, although there wasn't much putting down of the book from me. There was so much drama and tension throughout this novel that I genuinely didn't want to stop reading it. I loved the danger that was explored throughout and it made for a fantastic narrative. Jones wrote the characters with such conviction that they felt real! I genuinely believed everything that was written.

Overall, a fabulously gripping narrative and an author I will be keen to read again!

[Liz Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love thrillers, this one is for you! I love diving into thrillers between my usual go to genres, and this did not disappoint. It had my heart thumping, zeroing in on the words as I tried to anticipate what happened next. So thankful to have received this ARC & will recommend this to all of my thriller loving pals

[Diane Elizabeth Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fantastic legal thriller had me gripped from the first page!
We meet Mitch a court lawyer, whose life is turned upside down when he's ensnared by Paco after he unwittingly helps him escape being convicted.
The tension ramps up as Mitch navigates the murky underworld, risking not just his career but his family's safety.
The story turns more dangerous with the discovery of corruption reaching the highest echelons of the justice system.
Mitch's moral dilemma; expose the truth and endanger his loved ones, or stay silent is expertly portrayed. Mitch wants to retain his integrity, but is terrified of any repercussions if he doesn't do what Paco demands.
The writing is sharp, the pace races along, the characters are incredibly well fleshed out, and the ending is all tied up neatly, making this a truly standout read.
It even contains the word Bawbag! Being Scottish I'd give it an extra star for that alone if I could!
Highly recommended for fans of fast moving, high-stakes legal thrillers.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Sue Plant · Rating 4 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

mitch is called into court to give expert testimony.... for paco castillo...that set him free.... and its also the beginning of mitch nightmares

his guilty pleasure of gambling has cost him his marriage but its the debt that castillo now holds that has him by the short and curlies...

mitch has no one to turn to to help him ...gangsters are surrounding him, the fbi are interested in him and even paco wants his pound of flesh...

how can mitch turn it around and save his wife and child...

its a lot this book... and possibly could have been halved with some of the description but the actual storyline is decent enough to keep you glued to find out what happens in the end...

[Nicola Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a gritty and gripping read! The story was excellent.The cover is good and is fitting of the genre. Great job here. The book is very well written and flows nicely. The book had me on edge the entire time. It was a page turner and the twists were excellent. The setting of Oakland, California was just fine and worked nicely. The characters were brilliant. Mitch was a fantastic and well thought out character. I was very impressed by him! I really recommend this! Dylan is definitely hot on John Grisham's heels!!

[Roz Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a legal thriller which made an interesting change. It is wordy, with detailed descriptions, internal musings from our protagonist and lots of dialogue which I enjoyed. It is slower in pacing, due to the level of detail but still full of action and plenty of twists and turns. The tension increases as the story unfolds. 


Mitch has his life turned upside-down and his family placed at great risk when he is asked to take the stand as an expert witness. This should have just been a routine day at work. But suddenly he finds himself embroiled in a world he is unaccustomed to and the steaks are a higher price than he is willing to pay.


I like Mitch, he is flawed but he tries to do the right thing despite his challenging circumstances. The author is skilled at creating larger than life characters. I wasn't sure how I felt about Victor's character and this changed throughout the story. I liked that the characters felt very human especially when faced with big decisions. I don't want to give too much away but the plot was detailed and well thought out, the ending was particularly satisfying! 


I think people who enjoy gangster, crime, legal thrillers will like this one. 


Huge thanks to the author, Joffe Books and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.

[Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book's claim to be a "gripping and action-packed legal thriller" is accurate. There is plenty of action and danger throughout the book. The ending was so gripping that I lost sleep as I could not go to sleep without knowing what would happen to Mitch Sweeney, the judicial staff attorney at the center of the novel.

Paco Castillo, the criminal who is behind most of the danger, is truly menacing. I had doubts about his lawyer, Victor, a longtime friend of Mitch. Could he be trusted?

Fast-paced and well written. Although there is non-stop tension, I did get a chuckle at the start of Chapter 40 when a desert is called an abyss and "the indestructible cockroach of landscapes."

I highly recommend this book and plan to read more from this author.

I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Abhijeet Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"[...] should have also listened to her advice about not doing anything stupid. However, that slim window of time for inaction had passed, and I was already in the driveway checking out the front passenger side of the burgundy Ford Maverick."

The Judge’s Lawyer is the debut legal thriller by Dylan H. Jones, and he did a damn good job. As an ARC reader, I'll say it was a fiery story page after page.

The story follows Mitchum "Mitch" Sweeney, a judicial staff attorney whose already disarrayed life shatters when he unintentionally frees cartel boss Paco Castillo. And what begins as an act of professional duty spirals into a personal nightmare when Paco returns the favour in the form of a deadly bargain.

Dylan layers the narrative with escalating stakes, forcing Mitch into impossible choices that test not just his survival, but his moral compass. From Oakland's courtrooms to the streets of Palm Springs, Mitch's journey carry him from the bullets of cartel enforcers to the tight hold of federal investigators.

Mitch, as a character, felt totally believable. Far from an invincible action hero, he's someone who stumbles, makes bad calls, and takes his share of bruises. And his dry humour occasionally cuts through the tension, keeping the story as entertaining as it is thrilling.

Each plot point is compelling in itself and the brisk pace keeps the adrenaline high. However, it felt that some of them could have been developed further to deepen the impact. With so many twists, the story sometimes leaps from one high-stakes situation to the next before the previous one fully settles.

With its blend of high-stakes suspense, rich procedural detail, and a morally conflicted hero, The Judge’s Lawyer is a gripping debut. Recommended for those who crave police and mafia thrillers. It doesn't have action but the tension is high throughout.

[Sandy Goguen-Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a great legal thriller and a fast-paced story. I enjoyed this debut novel and will be looking for more books from him.

I received a copy of this ARC book from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sam “My Cosy Book Nook” · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5 stars rounded up)

If I were to pause and think about the best decisions I’ve made in my life, there’s no question that getting my dog, a now three-year-old black Labrador called Bonnie, would be right up there. She’s just everything I could ever have wanted a dog to be: excitable enough to get endless joy from chasing a squeaky tennis ball, or playing chasey-play-bitey games with other friendly dogs, yet well-behaved enough to have good off-lead recall. Enthusiastic enough to remind me to turn the computer off after work on a Friday evening and go to the pub for a packet of crisps, yet calm enough to sit quietly while I finish my drink and read a few chapters of my book.

She’s even got me on friendlier terms with my neighbour, whose little girl adores her. Best of all, though, she’s a wonderful people’s companion: even if I’m feeling sad, or disgruntled, or overwhelmed, she’s there inviting me to come for a walk, or play a game of tug-of-war, or just have a cuddle. She’s a reminder that, no matter how you’re feeling at any moment in time, there are reasons to be cheerful.

I sometimes wonder why any other breeds of domestic dog even exist. But here’s the thing. Firstly, I don’t know if I’d ever have formed that sort of bond with a Labrador had my mum not agreed, many years ago, to look after a yellow Labrador puppy that had been rescued. “Just for 24 hours,” the arrangement said. She became a family pet for another 14 years.

And secondly, despite my own views, there are people like my sister who, for no fathomable reason whatsoever, decided one day to get a miniature dachshund. Now, apologies to anyone who has one, but this is a horrible little thing that barks at nothing in the small hours of the morning, nips ankles when he gets too excited, scratches at shins to get some attention and ‘rewards’ you by licking constantly if you do allow him onto your lap. And I’m left wondering why on earth she didn’t just get a cat instead.

In other words, what delights me won’t please everyone, and vice versa. And sometimes, it’s only possible to discover something you love by trying something new.

It’s really both of these points that bring me to my latest read: The Judge’s Lawyer by Dylan H. Jones. I’m going to start here and now by saying that this isn’t the sort of book I’d normally choose to read, and that my main reason for agreeing to take part in this tour was because the wonderful Zoe O’Farrell had, through no fault of her own, ended up short of reviewers. But, when all is said and done, there’s a book out there for everyone, and it’s always worth trying something new. I just might end up loving it.

Certainly, in the case of this book, I found a lot to like. The character of Mitchum ‘Mitch’ Sweeney is a wonderful creation. He’s no invincible hero. He’s flawed. He’s human. He’s someone who on the one hand is very, very good at his job, but on the other hand uses this to mask everything else that he’s failed at in life. In particular, his addiction to gambling, which has all but cost him his marriage.

So when Mitch, as a result of simply doing the job that he does well, receives an offer he can’t refuse from a gangster, he does what you or I would probably do. He makes mistakes. He makes bad calls. Which has the reader screaming at him not to be so stupid, whilst at the same time being unable to help feeling at least a little bit of sympathy. Because, even when his decisions are wrong, we can see why he made them.

Some other, related issues are addressed nicely, too. Mitch’s addiction to gambling, whilst not explored in detail, is brought into the storyline just enough to make it real. As is the importance of working with colleagues whom you respect and trust, and which he never takes for granted.

Then, of course, there’s a good dose of excitement. I wouldn’t really describe this book as an action thriller, but it contains plenty of – to paraphrase the blurb – bullets flying and bodies dropping, and most of these instances bring about a new, wide-eyed-staring plot twist.

So far, so very good then. But I’m sorry to say that I did have a few small problems.

Firstly, I’m glad I started reading the book without having looked at the blurb again first, because I do think it gives rather too much away.

Secondly, I felt that the book was a little bit too long. I said that the multiple instances of bullets flying and bodies dropping are exciting, and that’s true. But it did reach the point wher I wondered how many more such instances there’d be before the end.

And thirdly, and most significantly, despite the numerous unforeseen plot twists along the way, the ending still felt a bit predictable. Even when the lives of key characters appeared to be in danger, I never felt that the author was prepared to do anything but allow them to live. I hope it’s not too big a spoiler to say so it proved to be. I actually wished he’d made a more drastic decision that would have given the book another dimension.

My conclusion, then, is that even though I’m still not quite convinced that US-based legal thrillers are really the genre for me, I’m still more than happy to have read this example.

My thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours for my inclusion on the blog tour, and to the author and Joffe Books for the digital ARC. I have reviewed the book voluntarily and honestly. My review is also available on my blog at www.mycosybooknook.wordpress.com and my social media pages.

[N3UR4L Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Riveting Legal Thriller That Questions Justice

Dylan H. Jones’s The Judge’s Lawyer is a compelling legal thriller that plunges readers into a world of corruption, crime, and courtroom drama. Set in the gritty Bay Area, the novel follows Mitch Sweeney, a judicial staff attorney whose routine life unravels when he’s drawn into a suppression motion hearing for Paco Castillo, a notorious crime boss. What begins as a professional obligation spirals into a personal nightmare as Mitch’s family is kidnapped, forcing him to navigate a treacherous landscape of violence and legal maneuvering to save them. The narrative arc traces Mitch’s transformation from a desk-bound lawyer to a man pushed to his limits, confronting both external threats and internal moral dilemmas.

Themes of justice, morality, and family anchor the story, explored through Mitch’s increasingly desperate choices. Jones probes the legal system’s vulnerabilities, exposing how power and corruption blur the lines between right and wrong. The tension between personal loyalty and professional duty is palpable, particularly as Mitch risks everything for his wife, Sierra, and son, Kurt. The novel questions the integrity of institutions meant to uphold justice, painting a cynical yet gripping portrait of a world where morality is negotiable.

Characters and setting are vividly realized, enhancing the story’s authenticity. Mitch is a relatable everyman, his flaws and familial ties lending depth to his high-stakes journey. Paco Castillo exudes menace as a chilling antagonist, while supporting figures like Victor Santiago, Mitch’s slick lawyer friend, add complexity. The Bay Area—spanning Oakland’s bustling streets to Mexico’s ominous beaches—feels alive, grounding the narrative in a tangible sense of place. Courtroom scenes, rich with procedural detail, showcase Jones’s legal expertise, making the setting a character in its own right.

The story’s engagement factor is high, with a relentless pace that hooks readers early and rarely lets up. The courtroom confrontations and the harrowing sequences of Mitch’s family in peril are particularly gripping, though the midsection occasionally leans on familiar thriller tropes. Plot twists sustain momentum, culminating in a satisfying, if slightly predictable, climax.

Jones’s writing style is clear and effective, blending sharp dialogue with evocative prose. Flashbacks enrich character backstories, while OCR-style excerpts—mimicking legal documents—add an innovative touch, though they occasionally disrupt the flow. The narrative’s straightforwardness suits its urgency, making it accessible yet immersive.

What stands out is the authenticity—the legal precision, the raw emotion of Mitch’s plight, and the atmospheric settings. The dialogue, especially in court, crackles with realism, reflecting Jones’s research and skill.

Overall, The Judge’s Lawyer excels as a thought-provoking thriller, balancing personal stakes with systemic critique. Its minor weaknesses—predictable turns and trope reliance—don’t overshadow its strengths: well-drawn characters, a vivid setting, and a morally complex plot.

A must-read for legal thriller fans and those drawn to stories of resilience amid corruption.

Heartily recommended!

Assessment from free advance review copy submitted voluntarily.

[Karolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is my review for The Judges Lawyer by Dylan H Jones

I got hooked on this intricate legal thriller as soon as I started reading it. Mitchum Sweeney works as a judicial staff attorney at Oakland’s Superior Court. He is on a trial separation from his wife and son after she found out about some gambling debts on a credit card so he is staying in an apartment of his friend, Victor, a fellow lawyer. Unfortunately, after he does an expert testimony in court which sets cartel kingpin Paco Castillo free, his life becomes worse and when he tries to turn down an invitation by Paco, he ends up accepting! You don’t say no to Paco! This was a brilliantly intense story that was well plotted and extremely well thought out. The characters were well developed and full of realism. The story was written very descriptively and everything was described in great detail. It was so good I could visualise it in my mind like a film as I was reading it, it was that vivid! I liked the author’s writing style and I found it a very easy style to read. I really liked the synopsis which drew me to read this book and I most certainly wasn’t disappointed. The story was superbly written and kept my attention so I didn’t want to put the book down as I wanted to know what happened next. There was a lot of detail in this story so it’s possible the author did some research for the realism that is reflected in the story as it is full of suspense and tension. I can’t wait to read another book by this terrific author.

Blurb :

He freed a monster. Now the city wants his head.

Mitchum Sweeney is fifty, separated from his wife, and one bad hand away from financial ruin.

By day, he’s a judicial staff attorney at Oakland’s Superior Court. By night, he’s dodging creditors and chasing lost causes. But when his expert testimony sets cartel kingpin Paco Castillo free, Mitch becomes a target — for the union, the FBI, and Paco himself.

Castillo has one final demand: find his missing wife, and Mitch’s mountain of gambling debt disappears.

But when Mitch’s search uncovers evidence of a child trafficking ring buried in the justice system itself, the stakes turn lethal.

As bullets fly and bodies drop, Mitch is forced to reckon with his past and confront impossible choices — because the truth won’t set him free, and saving the people he loves might mean damning himself for good . . .

A razor-sharp legal thriller packed with corruption, blackmail, and moral reckoning. Perfect for fans of John Grisham, Michael Connelly, Scott Turow, James Patterson and Harlan Coben.


Meet Mitch Sweeney. He’s a divorced judicial staff attorney with a gambling problem and a job that keeps him behind the scenes. At 50, Mitch isn’t looking for trouble — just a smooth path to retirement and maybe a second chance with his ex-wife and son. But when he’s pulled into the orbit of a violent criminal empire, Mitch must dust off his old skills from his life as a private investigator — the very life that cost him his family — and find out how far he’s willing to go for the truth.

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a gritty, fast-paced legal thriller that blends courtroom tension with noir-style grit. At its heart is Mitchum Sweeney — a flawed, fascinating protagonist who feels both broken and stubbornly resilient. At fifty, separated, and drowning in debt, Mitch is far from the polished, idealised “law hero” of the genre. Instead, he’s weary, cynical, and deeply human, which makes his descent into danger all the more compelling.

The story kicks off when Mitch’s testimony inadvertently sets Paco Castillo — a ruthless cartel boss — free. Castillo is not just a villainous caricature, but a dangerous presence whose manipulations ripple across every page. His demand that Mitch find his missing wife adds a sinister edge, and as Mitch digs deeper, the novel expands beyond cartel violence into the terrifying world of child trafficking and corruption within the justice system itself.

Secondary characters add texture: the relentless FBI agents circling Mitch, his estranged wife who lingers in the background as a reminder of what he’s lost, and the shadowy figures within the courts who would rather keep secrets buried than see justice done. Each interaction reinforces Mitch’s impossible bind. He’s a man trapped between survival, morality, and the ghosts of his past mistakes.

The tension stays high with sharp dialogue and a brisk pace, though at times the plot veers toward overcomplication, especially as layers of corruption and conspiracies stack up. Still, the action sequences are gripping, and the moral dilemmas land with real weight.

This isn’t a glossy legal drama; it’s a dark, rough-edged thriller about compromise, redemption, and the cost of survival. Fans of Michael Connelly or Don Winslow will feel at home here.

[ReadandRated · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mitchum Sweeney is not your average hero. He’s a fifty something staff attorney, weighed down by a series of bad choices, mounting gambling debts, and is fast losing his grip - both on the family he adores and on his sanity. When his courtroom testimony sets cartel boss Paco Castillo free, Mitch suddenly finds himself in over his head.

Foolishly accepting a deal to keep his debts at bay (although to be fair, it was a touch of Hobson's choice) he rapidly finds himself in a world of organized crime, prolific violence, and a deep corruption that steps too close to the justice system he’s meant to serve. Mitch is a great character, he's a little chaotic, deeply flawed, and very human - all of which made me root for him throughout the book. The thread of a moral dilemma; do the right thing and endanger his beloved family, or stay silent and be complicit, is beautifully drawn out..

I felt for him, sometimes the twists came so thick and fast it was hard to keep up, but I was never bored. And with Mitch stumbling his way through ever more impossible choices - half reluctant hero, half accidental survivor - he kept me turning the pages.

Apparently, approximately 2% of adults struggle with gambling addiction. This book highlights an eye opening glimpse into the ripple effects, where the weight of those debts and desperation could have disastrous effects. It’s a sad thought, and one this book plays with well.

Perfect for fans of action packed legal thrillers with a generous shot, punch, and kick to the ribs, of noir grit. 

My thanks to Zooloos Book Tours, Joffe Books and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compelling legal thriller with a professionally smart but flawed main character whose extreme gambling debts have made him vulnerable. This novel will keep the reader enthralled with its intriguing plot and strong writing. The character descriptions make them come alive, for example, “The man carried some serious presence; maybe in another lifetime he could have been a scene-stealing character actor whose name you never remember but with a face you never forget. His eyes were coal-black pools, giving the impression that nothing existed behind them, as if they were there just for show.”

The fast pace is appreciated by this reader, and in between all of the action is great character development and some of the best writing I have seen in a legal thriller. The consequences of a gambling addiction are made plain, as is the importance of facing up to your mistakes. The evils of human trafficking and organized crime are brought to the forefront.

The author, Dylan H. Jones, easily holds his own, and then some, with those who are at the top of the genre. In fact, now that I have read his work, I will have higher expectations for legal thrillers in the future.

I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via Zooloo’s Book Tours. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Ganesh Subramanian · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this gripping crime thriller, you're hooked from the very first page. The story follows Mitch Sweeny, a judge’s lawyer, a role that's as intriguing as it is novel. Mitch is unexpectedly called to testify as a witness for the defence, setting in motion a series of events that will turn his life upside down.
His personal life is already in turmoil—separated from his wife and son, Serena and Kurt, things are on the brink of collapse. The professional crisis only makes things worse. Unwittingly, his testimony leads to the release of a notorious mafia boss, Paco. This grave error lands Mitch in a new kind of trouble, as Paco uses this opportunity to blackmail him into working for the mob.
The novel's true brilliance lies in its intricate plot. All these threads are masterfully woven together, exposing the deep-seated corruption within the judiciary. We witness the chief judge himself orchestrating a scheme, bringing in retired judges to oversee cases in exchange for kickbacks. This conspiracy ensures that arrested mafia associates receive only minimal sentences.
This thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat as Mitch navigates a treacherous world of legal and moral dilemmas. It's a compelling and suspenseful read that will have you guessing until the final page.
Thank you to Booksirens for sharing an advance copy of the book for this review.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Avoid favors. They always come back to bite you in the ass.” In Dylan H. Jones’s novel, The Judge’s Lawyer, this phrase encapsulates the life of the protagonist, Mitch Sweeney. At the tail end of his career, Sweeney works as a staff attorney for the City of Oakland Superior Court, where he conducts research on cases. But when he agrees to help his longtime friend, defense attorney Victor, by offering expert testimony, the favor backfires: his words set a powerful drug lord free, Paco Castillo. That single act unleashes a storm of danger, betrayal, and consequences that quickly consume Sweeney’s life.

Adding further to Sweeney’s problems, his wife asks for a separation as a result of his significant gambling debt. Wanting to repay the dangerous loan sharks and win back his family, he instead accepts a deal from the powerful drug lord he helped set free…Paco says, “Find my wife, and I will wipe away your debt.” In a moment of desperation, Sweeney agrees, further entangling himself in the criminal world and plunging into a dangerous game of survival.

To heighten the drama, Sweeney uncovers corruption within the Oakland Superior Court, forges an uneasy alliance with an FBI agent, and fends off relentless pressure from the Court Employees’ Union leader, leaving him torn between conflicting loyalties.

On the surface, The Judge’s Lawyer reads like a straightforward legal thriller; however, Mitch Sweeney and his cast of misfit companions bring an unexpected humor that delivers several laugh-out-loud moments. I thoroughly enjoyed Dylan H. Jones’s latest entry into the genre, which kept me eagerly turning the pages to see how the story would unfold. The conclusion proved especially satisfying, as Sweeney managed to “take care of business” while remaining true to his core principles.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC through "Booksirens" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

The story follows Mitch, a court staff lawyer, with what events took place a result of being called as an expert witness. Mitch was in the court room watching his friend Victor defend the individual known as "Paco Magic". Mitch is called to the stand to act as an expert witness in reference to body cameras. It seems that Paco was arrested and both of the body cameras for the arresting officers malfunctioned. Mitch was asked if this was normal and he stated in his experience that it wasn't. Victor asked the judge to dismiss the charges as a result of Mitch's testimony. The request was granted. Because of this activity got invited to a celebration party. At the party, he was asked by Paco to do a favor. If he did the favor which was to locate Paco's wife, a gambling debt would be handled. Mitch accepted and located the wife, but Mitch learned that he stilled owed Paco regarding it. Mitch was given another task and that was to locate a laptop computer or else.

Follow Mitch along and learn what issues he ran into in attempting to fulfill the requests. Discovered what the eventual response was and what happened in the end.

This is definitely a book well worth reading!

[Chas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to receive a review copy of The Judge’s Lawyer. Full disclosure, I’m a fan of Dylan H. Jones’s work. His crimes series is always tightly plotted, the characters interesting, and the dialogue spot on. In this, his newest novel, he seems to have tapped into a whole new creative vein. Writing in the first person, from the point of view of a flawed, but well-meaning lawyer, Jones lets loose a string of sometimes outlandish, but highly entertaining similes. He describes two men hunched over a video game “with the intensity of Rabbis studying the Talmud.” When our hero is physically assaulted, he feels his cheek scrape “like a match across sandpaper.” A young man studying a photograph “palmed his right hand on the wall in the manner of a drunk bracing himself before unzipping….” While the trouble Mitch, the lawyer, gets himself into is intense, the ride along the way is pure entertainment. The novel is a cross between the noir pleasure of a Sam Spade story and intelligent plotting of a John Grisham legal thriller. The Judge’s Lawyer has the making of a modern noir classic.
- Chas Halpern, author of the novel, The Physics of Relationships -

[June Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to BookSirens, the author and publisher for an ARC of The Judge’s Lawyer by Dylan H. Jones. I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book, as the title suggests, is the story of Mitch Sweeney, an attorney, who works as for a judge. Mitch’s problems begin when he testifies on behalf of a Paco Castillo, a notorious crime boss, resulting in Paco’s release. We learn that Mitch has a gambling problem and has a acumulativa a sizable debt. Paco reaches out to Mitch to hire him to find Paco’s wife and her laptop. In exchange, Paco will settle the gambling debt. Things go downhill from there and the bodies start to accumulate.

Overall, the book is engaging and reads easily. There are plenty of twists and turns, most I did not anticipate The characters were interesting, likable and colorful, especially Mitch and Alma. This book feels like it might be the beginning of a new series. I hope so.

If you enjoy legal thrillers as I do, this book is just what you are are looking for.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

A legal thriller, The Judge’s Lawyer (2025) by Dylan H. Jones is set in Oakland, in the bay region of San Francisco. Mitchum Sweeney is an Attorney for the Oakland Courthouse, when he is called as a specialist witness in a trial featuring an alleged crime boss. Mitch has mounting gambling debts and agrees to find a missing wife in exchange as payment of his debt. The situation quickly turns dark when Mitch is involved in a hit and run, and then his wife and son are threatened. Adding to his problems, Mitch is approached with evidence of potential corrupt practises in the Courthouse. With the increasing danger, Mitch must somehow save his family, but his actions cause further problems and builds towards an explosive final confrontation. It makes for a first-class legal thriller with a four and a half star read rating, despite a somewhat disparate dual ending. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to BookSirens and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this legal thriller from beginning to end. This is a new author for me which I enjoyed their writing skills as well as their attention to details that brought the story to life. This is a well written story that is full of suspense, blackmail and corruption. Mitch is a lawyer by day and by night he has a whole pile of problems. He testifies as an expert witness that sets a mob boss free but now he has a target on his back. This is where the story gets suspenseful and hard to put down. I wanted to know what happened to Mitch. What happens with Mitch is something you don't want to miss. I enjoyed the growth of the plot that made the story easy to read and entertaining. This is a fast paced hard to put down story where the characters pull you into their world with ease. They will keep you turning pages to the end. This is a great story and one that I highly recommend.

[Leanne Tempest · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Judge’s Lawyer is a gripping debut legal thriller. The pace is fast right from the beginning and the stakes are high for Mitch (and his family).

We follow Mitch through the ethical dilemmas he faces and truly feel the agony of his decisions. Mitch, Paco and all the other characters are so well written and fleshed out that it’s almost as if they could step off the pages.

The dialogue is tight and the courtroom scenes have obviously been well researched.

There is some wonderful evocative prose and an exploration of how right and wrong can become blurred by power and corruption.

The ending is tight and ties up all the loose ends neatly. Although it was a little bit predictable it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book as it also made sense.

I was introduced to legal thrillers by John Grisham’s early work and I can honestly say that this book lives up to the lofty expectations these books set.

Thanks to Zooloos Book Tours and the author for a free review copy.

[Alison Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really great read. Action packed and high octane. A truly great book! Mitch Sweeney gets an offer he can't refuse but it comes at a price. No good deed goes unpunished is the perfect way to describe this book. Mitch ends up embroiled in something by seemingly helping someone in court then ends up owing a debt to the worst person imaginable. With no choice but to do his bidding he is involved in something that sets off a chain of events that will put not only him but his family in terrible danger. The author keeps you on the edge of your seat with some sinister yet interesting characters. Its hard to bring the action into some storylines but the author does this perfectly. Whilst providing plenty of surprises along the way. This book will be one you will remember. I cant wait to see more from this author.

[amanda_coffee_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read a book by this author, and I have to say, it was an absolute blast! I couldn’t put it down, it was like a page-turner. I even preordered a copy just so I could reread it.

This book really made me think about the system we live in. I found myself rooting for our main character, Mitch, even though he had some tough choices to make. He just wanted to get his family back, but there was always something he needed to fix or someone telling him what to do. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, and I felt like I was watching a movie while I was reading.

I’m curious to see what happens next in Mitch’s journey. I’m hoping there’s a sequel coming soon. I’d love to follow his adventures and see how his friends and family are doing.

Thanks a bunch to Lovebooktours for the chance to read this book. I’ve always enjoyed reading from this author, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future.

[Mrs C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mitch is 50 , separated from his wife & son and works for the judicial system reviewing cases for the courts.
His best friend from law school unexpectedly calls him as an expert witness in a case where he is defending a mob boss from a murder charge , when the man is found not guilty it leads to a whole new set of problems for Mitch who is struggling with a gambling habit. His friend Victor arranges a meeting with his client who offers to clear all his gambling debts in exchange for finding his missing wife to sign divorce papers so he can remarry.
This solves one problem but leads him into a world that puts himself and family into mortal danger and uncovers corruption in the Judicial system , child trafficking and a mob takeover .
A thrilling read I very much enjoyed and couldn't put down until the shocking final act left me stunned.

[Pauline Render · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t normally read legal thrillers but this had me hooked from the blurb.
Mitchum Sweeney is a judicial attorney pretty much down on his luck, and when he gives expert testimony during a court case, his luck takes a further nosedive into the world of a cartel boss, a missing wife and gambling debts to be repaid. This was a fast paced read, where it doesn’t matter what Mitch does, he gets further embroiled in the criminal underworld he wants no part of. There are many bad guys, someone who isn’t as innocent was what he thought and some who are, who get dragged into the mire. With plenty of action, not to mention a couple of twists, this book had me gripped from the first page to the last.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Judge’s Lawyer, with one protagonist I was rooting for all the way through.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

One bad decision to gamble, leads Mitch, a lawyer, to accept a deal with a killer to do his bidding. After reading everything Mitch had been through, looking back I think maybe death would have been easier. Everytime you turn around it seemed Mitch was fighting for his life. A suspenseful, raw gritty, riveting story about truth and justice versus wide spread corruption at the top and bottom of the justice system. Sierra was like a bad stain unrelenting, judgemental, and unforgiving. Her and the captain made my stomach lurch. How utterly cheap and sickening. Mitch unwittingly attached himself to a criminal that made a patsy out of him, as his girlfriend did when she got the opportunity. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.