But They Didn't Read Me My Rights!: Myths, Oddities, and Lies About Our Legal System

by Michael D. Cicchini, Amy B. Kushner

Much of what we think we know about the law is actually a myth or misconception. This book debunks many of those myths and misconceptions by providing an entertaining yet educational tour of our American legal system, including its many oddities. In the process, the book answers many interesting legal questions about some of our most important, fascinating, and surprising laws in an array of areas. For example, the police do not have to read you your rights when they arrest you; in fact, sometimes they can even interrogate you without reading you your rights. Moreover, you can be charged and convicted of drunk driving for just turning the ignition key, even if you never drive the car or start the engine! While some contracts do have to be in writing to be enforceable, most don't. The authors explain why. Written in a lively, appealing style, the book is composed of self-contained chapters, each addressing a distinct legal myth, oddity, question, or misconception. Select your favorite topic or enjoy the authors' witty and very informative discussion of the law cover-to-cover. Either way, you are assured of being entertained, enlightened, and surprised!

Genres: Law, Nonfiction

275 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you may go to jail, please read this book ahead of time. If you know someone in jail, please send them this book.

Accessible and relevant, But They Didn’t Read Me My Rights addresses exactly what the subtitle claims; the book explores the common myths, oddities and lies prevalent about the legal system. Almost half the book is dedicated to criminal law and helps dispel the common misconceptions that float about pop-culture television crime shows. The everyday mistaken beliefs that fill defense attorneys’ voice mails are put forth in short, digestible chapters such as If you accuse someone of a crime, can you later “drop the charges”? (pg. 20), Can you be convicted of a crime without any evidence? (pg.118), and my personal favorite, Are public defenders “real lawyers” (pg. 135) .

A little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing. So if you want a little bit of knowledge, at least make sure it’s knowledge. A great book for individuals who may find themselves suddenly confronted with the injustice system.

[Sam O'H · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for reasons to be upset with the legal system in America, this book is full of them. Chapter after chapter covers rights you thought you have, but it turns out you don't. Well written and interesting. A very fast read, but an entertaining and educational read as well.

[Paul Groinus · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you want a good introduction to today's legal system, read a little of this book. A lot of it just made me angry because we are losing more of our civil rights every day in this country.

I can see how many people just do not want to get involved or call law enforcement for any reason. Messing with legal matters is like trying to relight a short fuse, bound to blow up in your face anytime.

Protect our citizens and their property. What is so hard about that? Or is law enforcement now about just chasing after the money?

For those of you getting involved today (August 3), have a great National Night Out!

[Sandy · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was okay. The problem was that the author appeared to be looking for dramatic effect - that is, he'd take a case, one that appears to have been a real outlier, change the facts a bit, then slide on down the slippery slope to warn of dire consequences.

[Kcastro · Rating 5 out of 5]

The many ways that different laws can and have been interpretted.