Veteran Attorney Publishes Two Books Challenging US Justice System

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Veteran criminal attorney Willard Bakeman has published two new books that present a bold challenge to the way the United States understands crime, punishment, and public safety. The first book, "Law, Liberty, and Mental Health," addresses the growing intersection of violent crime, untreated mental illness, and substance abuse, while the second, "The Death Penalty Revisited," examines the longstanding debate surrounding capital punishment.

Why it matters

Bakeman's books come at a time when the criminal justice system is facing increasing scrutiny over its handling of mental health issues and the use of the death penalty. His unique perspective as both a prosecutor and defense attorney provides a nuanced understanding of these complex topics, encouraging readers to reconsider the moral and legal assumptions that shape modern American justice.

The details

In "Law, Liberty, and Mental Health," Bakeman argues that modern legal priorities have increasingly placed individual liberty above public safety, even in situations where individuals pose a known danger. He draws comparisons to societal responses during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that sweeping public health restrictions were accepted to prevent harm, while legal systems remain reluctant to intervene in cases where untreated mental illness creates predictable risks to public safety. "The Death Penalty Revisited" explores the strongest arguments on both sides of the capital punishment debate, encouraging readers to engage in thoughtful reflection about whether the death penalty truly fulfills the societal goals often claimed for it.

• Bakeman's two new books were published on March 14, 2026.

What’s next

Bakeman's books are available now on Amazon, and the author hopes they will encourage deeper public reflection on how legal systems can better balance liberty, justice, and the protection of society.