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Defense Lawyer
James Patterson

Defense Lawyer

Quick Answer

Read "Defense Lawyer" as the 57th book in the Standalone Novels sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "The Liar" (Book 56)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 57th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2021416 pp
From the world's #1 bestselling author comes the story of the criminal lawyer who represented everybody from Manuel Noriega to John Gotti to Bernie Goetz—and won every single case. Known for his sharp mind, sharp suits, and bold courtroom strategies, Bronx-native Barry Slotnick is known as the best criminal lawyer in the US. He calls himself “Liberty’s Last Champion.”   Slotnick mediates Bette Midler’s bathhouse contract and represents John Gotti, “The Dapper Don.” He defends “Subway Shooter” Bernie Goetz and negotiates future First Lady Melania Trump’s pre-nup.   His unparalleled legal brilliance defines a profession, a city—and an era.
Next Recommended Book

The Family Lawyer

Book #57 of 524 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Standalone Novels conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Defense Lawyer?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Defense Lawyer before The Liar?

No. We recommend reading The Liar first. Defense Lawyer is the 57th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Defense Lawyer required reading for the Standalone Novels?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Defense Lawyer in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Defense Lawyer is The Family Lawyer (Book #57).