United States v. Windsor

United States v. Windsor chronicles the landmark Supreme Court case that challenged the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Attorney Roberta Kaplan recounts her experience representing Edie Windsor in a case that would reshape marriage equality in America. The book follows the legal strategy and preparation behind the historic challenge, from the initial filing through oral arguments before the Supreme Court. Kaplan details the personal stories of key figures involved while explaining the constitutional principles and legal precedents at stake. Along the way, Kaplan examines the rapid evolution of public opinion on same-sex marriage and the broader LGBTQ+ rights movement of the early 21st century. She provides insight into the complex interplay between social change and constitutional law. The narrative raises fundamental questions about equality, justice, and the role of the courts in protecting individual rights. Through this specific case, broader themes emerge about how social movements can transform legal doctrine and constitutional interpretation.

Readers call Kaplan's firsthand account informative but note it focuses heavily on legal strategy and court procedures. Multiple reviewers appreciate the behind-the-scenes details of building the Windsor case and navigating the Supreme Court system. Likes: - Clear explanations of complex legal concepts - Personal anecdotes about Edie Windsor - Inside look at marriage equality movement strategy Dislikes: - Too much technical legal detail for general readers - Writing style can be dry and academic - Some repetition of points Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (93 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (41 ratings) Specific reader comments: "Valuable historical record but gets bogged down in legal minutiae" - Goodreads reviewer "Important story told from unique perspective of lead counsel" - Amazon reviewer "Expected more about Windsor herself and less about court procedures" - Goodreads reviewer

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🏛️ Roberta Kaplan, who wrote this firsthand account of the landmark DOMA case, had never argued before the Supreme Court before taking on Edie Windsor's case. 💑 The $363,053 estate tax bill that Edie Windsor received after her spouse's death—which sparked the case—would not have been charged if the federal government had recognized her marriage to Thea Spyer. ⚖️ The case resulted in one of the most significant LGBTQ+ rights victories in U.S. history, striking down Section 3 of DOMA and leading to federal recognition of same-sex marriages. 📚 Author Kaplan wrote the book while struggling with severe asthma, often dictating portions from her bed during recovery periods. 🤝 Throughout the case, Kaplan received pro bono assistance from her law firm, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, estimated to be worth millions of dollars in legal fees.