Description
Book SynopsisThe Al-Qaeda terror attacks of September 11, 2001 aroused a number of extraordinary counter measures in response, including an executive order authorizing the creation of military tribunals or "commissions" for the trial of accused terrorists. This title explains what military tribunals are, and how they function.
Trade ReviewA fascinating history of military commissions in the West's prior wars. Peter Richards argues that military justice has a necessary role to play in defeating al Qaeda. The processes of fair trial, he argues, must take account of the real difficulties posed by this new style of war. -- Ruth Wedgwood,Edward Burling Professor of International Law and Diplomacy, Johns Hopkins University
An excellent work, breaking new ground while respecting the scholarship and writing that has gone before. It is unique in its content, approach, and lessons, reflecting deep research and excellent scholarship. -- Gary D. Solis,Georgetown Law, and author of Marines and Military Law in Vietnam
Provides a comprehensive look at the history of tribunals. * Trial *
Provides a timely work of history and a proactive thesis * New York Law Journal *
In an illuminating . . . survey, Richards traces the use of military commissions . . . throughout the U.S. history as well as in the Boer War and World War I. * New York Law Journal *
Peter Richards
EXTRAORDINARY JUSTICE provides through historical analysis a strong defense of the resort to martial law and military tribunals, especially in times of civil emergency, to restore law and order in society. * Law & Politics Book Review *
At this critical moment in time,
Extraordinary Justice seeks to fill an important gap in our understanding of what military tribunals are, how they function, and how successful they are in administering justice by placing them in comparative and historical context. * International Law Reporter *
“A timely and important book, providing a much needed historical overview on war tribunals. * Book Reviews *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction 1 American Practices from the Founding through the Civil War 2 British Military Tribunals and Martial Law in the Boer War 3 France and the Conseils de Guerre of the First World War 4 Trials by Military Commission in the Second World War 5 Wartime Tribunals and the Future of WarfareConclusion NotesBibliographyIndex About the Author
