A continuation of the adventures of the charismatic lawyer from the novel “The Lincoln Lawyer” Mick Haller, this novel begins with his recuperation from the events that took place then. After a year of rest, Mick is back on the job after one of his colleagues, Jerry Vincent, ends up murdered. He takes over his pending work, most significant of which is the trial of Walter Elliot, an extremely rich and important figure, who is on trial for allegedly murdering his wife and her lover.
While this is happening, Mick is approached by the detective investigating Vincent’s murder. He warns him against the danger of taking over the Elliot case and urges him to cooperate. Mick also takes over a less extreme case of a diamond necklace theft, feels sorry for the accused man called Patrick and clears him off the accusation, after which he appoints him to be his driver.
While he is gathering evidence to defend his client, Mick is informed by Elliot that he had some business with the mafia and has a reason to think they are the ones who committed both the murders he is accused of, and the murder of Vincent.
In the meantime, Bosch, the detective from previous novels, discovers that there was some foul play during the time Vincent worked on the case. He discovers that Vincent planted a member into the jury with a false identity, to ensure that Walter walks free. Haller makes sure this becomes known to the judge and jury, and the trial is stopped.
On his way from work, Haller is attacked by none other than the false member of the jury, and Bosch arrives just in time to rescue him. Mick discovers that the corruption behind this trial goes even deeper, with the judge involved. Walter Elliot ends up murdered, and Mick discovers that his late wife’s lover’s family is behind it.
