Disrobed: An Inside Look at the Life and Work of a Federal Trial Judge

Get a unique look at the life and trials of Federal District Court Judge Frederic Block, whose bench sits in the heart of New York City. The book was written for the general public in an effort to explain, in practical terms, the perspective behind some of the most newsworthy and sensational cases of the last 20 years. The Judge discusses the death penalty, racketeering, gun laws, drug laws, discrimination laws, race riots, terrorism, and foreign affairs, as well as the more humble aspects of being a man on the bench.

Fred Block practiced law for 34 years as a small-town lawyer before he was appointed to the federal district court bench in 1994 by President Bill Clinton. He is an Indiana University alumnus and received his law degree from Cornell Law School. Far removed from New York City he made his mark in private practice by successfully handling a number of pivotal national cases. As reflected in this book, Judge Block has a creative flair. A jazz musician, he previously showed off his artistic talent in an off-Broadway musical he co-authored - both music and lyrics - ;Professionally Speaking, and a host of country songs he wrote, before the bench beckoned.