Hart and Wechsler's the Federal Courts and the Federal System

While I agree with the below readers about the over-usage of footnotes, I believe the notes are necessary, as the federal courts system has changed dramatically since the first edition was published. I loved the course, and therefore loved the book. I think the two must go hand-in-hand. It gives a somewhat concise history of the beginnings of our federalist system complete with checks and balances, separation of powers, usage of legislative and executive courts. I found the historical context inspiring. To compare the intellectual abilities of American politicians of 200 years ago with the politicians today, you are left with your jaw on the ground asking "what happened?" I think this book can give a practitioner a roadmap on how to find your way around the federal court system (you learn to plead out of a complaint for lack of jurisdiction for lack of standing due to mootness, ripeness, political question, etc) and gives you an in depth look at various niche practice areas which are bulging with activity nowadays. (Executive and State Judicial Habeas Corpus...the most interesting section if you ask me...unfortunately you'll have to buy the supplement for the bulk of the issue, but the history is fascinating.) Federal Courts is a near unwieldy course, but it is fascinating just like this 1300+ page book. Whether you like this book depends on whether you like the topic.

Well, Judge Posner calls this (in its first edition) the greatest casebook, and surely it is that.