This book investigates the intersection of legal practice and improvisational theory, questioning whether justice can be understood as an extempore act rather than a rigid application of rules. Sara Ramshaw, a scholar of law and music, utilizes a multidisciplinary framework that draws upon jazz theory, performance studies, and critical legal theory. She argues that the law, much like musical improvisation, relies on a balance between established structures and the spontaneous, creative responses required by unique, real-world cases.

Legal scholars and music theorists frequently cite this work as a unique synthesis of performance studies and jurisprudence. Experts highlight the text for its innovative approach to understanding the flexibility inherent in judicial discretion.