A LIFE IN MY HANDS An Autobiography

Hardback. The legendary figure, well woven into the colourful historical tapestry of San Francisco, was a superlative legal advocate and perhaps the greatest San Franciscologist of his time. He was the basis for the Sam Benedict television series illustrating his career. Ehrlich cut a very dapper figure in and out of court, and was something of a Bible scholar. He defended many celebrities and over a hundred people accused of murder. Some of his work substantially revised or clarified California law interpretation. Known among intimates as 'The Master', he was himself a celebrity and a committed historian of San Francisco. Among his more famous cases he once defended Jane Russell's bosom exhibited in 'The Outlaw'. In defending Sally Rand's fan dance, and her costume which was primarily talcum powder, he had Miss Rand perform, and the judge dismissed the case. He defended Billie Holliday who was arrested with her manager for possession of opium (a frame-up Ehrlich contends). But he also secured a divorce for James Mason, helped Walter Wanger when he shot his wife Joan Bennett's paramour, and assisted Caryl Chessman whom he did not consider guilty as charged. With Illus. pds and eps, + Index. 379pp. 8vo h/back. From the library of true crime writer, Wilfred Gregg, with his personal b/plate. Lightly browned edges, sunned sp. o/w Vg.