In Justice in Extreme Cases, Darryl Robinson argues that the encounter between criminal law theory and international criminal law (ICL) can be illuminating in two directions: criminal law theory can challenge and improve ICL, and conversely, ICL's novel puzzles can challenge and improve mainstream criminal law theory. Robinson recommends a 'coherentist' method for discussions of principles, justice and justification. Coherentism recognizes that prevailing understandings are fallible, contingent human constructs. This book will be a valuable resource to scholars and jurists in ICL, as well as scholars of criminal law theory and legal philosophy.

‘Robinson’s brilliant Justice in Extreme Cases has rehabilitated international criminal law using a deft combination of sophisticated philosophy, legal doctrine, and level-headed policy. In rediscovering the justice in international criminal justice, Robinson’s book sails against the prevailing winds of an increasingly cynical discipline and takes the reader on a refreshing journey.’

Jens David Ohlin - Vice Dean and Professor of Law, Cornell Law School

‘Darryl Robinson’s important and compelling book marks a significant contribution to the literature on International Criminal Law. His rich and careful analysis is full of insights, providing a roadmap for better reasoned judicial opinions and welcome reforms that will re-commit the law to fundamental principles of justice.’

Alexander K. A. Greenawalt - Professor of Law, Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University

'Drumbl produced a generation of expressivists, and Robinson is poised to create a generation of deontic cosmopolitan coherentists. Justice in Extreme Cases provides an eminently humane and sensible view of international criminal legal theory and offers a look at the theory in action with a compelling analysis of command responsibility. Anyone working in (or even just interested in) international criminal law should read this book.'

Caroline L. Davidson - Professor of Law, Willamette University, College of Law

‘This well-reasoned, bountifully sourced, and exceptionally insightful book … If … you are interested in some challenging thinking that questions orthodoxies … and if you are in search of a new way of thinking about the interpretation and application of ICL, then Justice in Extreme Cases - Criminal Law Theory Meets International Criminal Law delivers.’

Michael G. Karnavas Source: michaelgkarnavas.net

‘This is a very significant contribution to the theory of international criminal law (ICL) … by … a prominent member of the Canadian Government’s team that worked on the ICC negotiations …Robinson sets out his … appealing jurisprudential stance for approaching such questions [and] weighs in persuasively on a matter of great significance.’

Roger S. Clark Source: Criminal Law Forum

Darryl Robinson has firmly established himself as a leading and original theorist in the area of international criminal law (ICL). Robinson’s book has received widespread and justified praise…. [T]here is no aspect of ICL that could not be improved by adopting Robinson’s approach to legal theory.

Joseph Rikhof Source: Canadian Yearbook of International Law/Annuaire canadien de droit international

‘This is a very good read, including the Annexes, marked by impeccable scholarship, originality and clear exposition.’

Roger S. Clark Source: Criminal Law Forum