Murder by Mercy: Euthanasia on Trial

Patricia Rosier died in her home in Fort Myers, Florida. She sought the help of her prominent physician husband, Peter, to end her cancer-ravaged life with some measure of dignity. Within months of her death, Peter had been indicted for first degree murder and faced death in Florida's electric chair.

How could it happen? How does a loving husband and father get charged with first degree murder? This compelling true story shows how easy it can happen in America's legal system.

"Euthanasia" remains a crime in Florida and in most other states, yet the majority of such "criminals" are never prosecuted. But Dr. Rosier was singled out because he "confessed," both in a television interview and in writing, to believing in euthanasia and to assisting his wife's suicide.

In Murder of Mercy every heart-pounding moment of Dr. Rosier's legal ordeal is vividly captured by famed trial attorney Stanley M. Rosenblatt, who, together with his wife and law partner Susan, represented the accused. Describing an intriguing array of legal twists and turns, this riveting book is more than just gripping courtroom drama. Find out why Patricia's father and brothers sought immunity before they would testify. Feel the rush of tension in planning defense strategy: How could anyone explain away Dr. Rosier's confessions? Could the Fort Myers judge be persuaded to change the location of the trial? Should Peter Rosier testify in his own defense? The powerful arguments of the State and the defense are laced with ridicule, sarcasm, and scorn - each side accusing the other of treacherous character assassination.

Stanley M. Rosenblatt, who is listed in "The Best Lawyers in America," has hosted two PBS programs: "Within the Law" and "Israeli Diary." He is the author of THE DIVORCE RACKET, JUSTICE DENIED, MALPRACTICE AND OTHER MALFEASANCES, and TRIAL LAWYER.