What the Judge Thought by Sir Edward Abbott Parry is a witty and insightful collection of essays and reflections on the legal profession, drawn from the author’s experiences as a British judge and barrister in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. First published in 1922, the book blends humor, anecdote, and keen observation to demystify the courtroom, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the quirks of judicial life, the absurdities of legal disputes, and the humanity of those entangled in the law.
Parry’s writing is both erudite and accessible, filled with memorable characters—from pompous barristers to hapless defendants—and timeless musings on justice, fairness, and the often-peculiar nature of legal reasoning. His tone ranges from satirical to philosophical, revealing the judge’s perspective on everything from trivial lawsuits to profound moral dilemmas.
A classic of legal literature, What the Judge Thought remains a delight for lawyers and lay readers alike, celebrating the absurd and the solemn in equal measure while reminding us that the law, at its best, is deeply human.
