The trial of Penguin Books Ltd was a landmark case in the realm of publishing and literary expression. Sparked by the release of D.H. Lawrence's controversial novel, 'Lady Chatterley's Lover,' the case examined the boundaries of obscenity and the rights of publishers in the United Kingdom. The book, which had been out of print for decades due to its explicit content, was brought back into public discussion by Penguin's decision to publish an unexpurgated edition in 1960. This bold move led to a police raid and the subsequent trial for obscenity.

Throughout the trial, which captivated the nation, the prosecution sought to convince the jury that the book was indecent and lacked any literary value. Conversely, the defense argued for the novel’s significance as a work of literature and as a reflection of its time, emphasizing the artistic representation of human relationships. The trial featured notable figures, including the art critic Sir Herbert Read and publishers who defended the novel’s merits.

After deliberation, the jury returned a not guilty verdict on November 2, 1960. This decision was monumental, not only for Penguin Books but also for the freedom of expression in Britain. The case shifted public dialogue surrounding censorship and art, deeply influencing the laws pertaining to literary works and obscenity in the UK.