“Marc Hertogh presents a powerful response to those who contend that law is a constant presence in everyday life and that we continually grapple with its demands. A clear-eyed view of social life suggests a very different conclusion – for most of us, law is increasingly distant, even irrelevant. We are not dominated by law, but we are alienated from it. For the most part, we think and act without reference to legal norms and concepts. This broad-ranging investigation serves as a fine exemplar of a new generation of “legal consciousness” research that argues for a sweeping reassessment of conventional thinking about the ever-expanding role of law. Drawing on extensive empirical support, Hertogh suggests instead that law’s influence in our lives may be less than anyone would have guessed, and in contemporary circumstances it may in fact be getting smaller.” (David M. Engel, State University of New York at Buffalo, USA)

“Marc Hertogh argues that as state law’s reach into everyday life extends, popular experience of its processes often produces deep alienation from the law, sometimes even outright rejection. Using vivid case studies and synthesising a wealth of earlier research, he shows how this alienation occurs, and with what effects. His book is a major contribution to empirical sociolegal research and a powerful warning against complacency about the rule of law.” (Roger Cotterrell, Queen Mary University of London, UK)

“In this provocative and topical book Hertogh explores the extent of legal alienation amongst even mainstream social groups, drawing on case studies of reactions to anti-discrimination law, established practices of construction cartels and street- level administrators acting according to their own values. The field of 'legal consciousness studies' will never be the same.” (David Nelken, King's College London, UK)

Examines the erosion of legal legitimacy in everyday life in the Netherlands Draws on three detailed case studies to illuminate theory of legal alienation Appeals to a wide readership through global theoretical discussions

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