Books The Street Lawyer by John Grisham

The Street Lawyer is a legal thriller novel by John Grisham that tells the story of Michael Brock, a successful antitrust lawyer working at a prestigious Washington D.C. law firm, Drake & Sweeney. His life changes dramatically when a homeless man, who insists on being called "Mister," takes several lawyers hostage in the firm’s office. The man is eventually shot and killed by police, but the incident profoundly impacts Michael.

Plot Summary:

After the hostage crisis, Michael becomes deeply troubled by what he learns about the homeless man’s motives and the harsh realities of homelessness.

He investigates and discovers that his law firm was involved in an illegal eviction of homeless tenants from a condemned building to make way for a federal project. The eviction was done without proper legal process, resulting in the death of a homeless family during winter.

Feeling guilty and disillusioned with his corporate law career, Michael leaves the firm and joins the 14th Street Legal Clinic, a nonprofit organization that provides legal aid to homeless people and others in need.

At the clinic, Michael works alongside Mordecai Green, a passionate advocate for the homeless, and becomes involved in cases that highlight the struggles of the marginalized.

Michael also develops personal relationships, including with a woman named Ruby, who is battling addiction, and a young advocate named Megan.

The novel explores themes of social justice, compassion, and redemption as Michael fights against the powerful interests of his former firm, which retaliates with legal charges against him.

Eventually, a lawsuit is filed against the firm, leading to a settlement that includes compensation for the evicted families and a commitment from the firm to support pro bono work for the homeless.

The story ends on a hopeful note, with Michael embracing his new purpose and reflecting on his transformed life.

1 BOOK