Books The Fifth Witness (Lincoln Lawyer Book 4) Mass Market by Michael Connelly

"The Fifth Witness" by Michael Connelly is the fourth book in the Lincoln Lawyer series featuring defense attorney Mickey Haller. In this novel, Haller primarily handles foreclosure defense cases during tough economic times. One of his clients, Lisa Trammel, a single mother and activist fighting her bank's foreclosure on her home, is accused of murdering Mitchell Bondurant, a high-level banker involved in the mortgage department. Despite the forensic evidence that seems against her, Haller takes on her defense.

Throughout the story, Mickey and his team—including his ex-wife Lorna and investigator Cisco—work to dismantle the prosecution's case by exploring alternative suspects and uncovering Bondurant's connections to organized crime and shady foreclosure dealings. The trial portrays the intense legal battle, and Haller cleverly maneuvers witnesses and evidence to challenge the prosecution.

Ultimately, the jury acquits Lisa, but a disturbing realization hits Haller that she is likely guilty, revealed later when she calls him for further legal help and behaves with cold indifference. This forces Mickey to confront ethical dilemmas and his own role in the case.