NCJ Number
219807
Date Published
2007
Length
374 pages
Annotation
This new second edition is an expansive and practical guide to criminal law, evidence, and procedure.
Abstract
Part 1, "Criminal Law Explained," presents a history of criminal law, defines criminal conduct, and discusses the tools attorneys use in their practice. Part 2, "Criminal Procedure and Evidence," describes in detail the steps required to conduct a constitutionally sound search, seizure, and arrest. Part 2 also presents a comprehensive description of the duties and responsibilities of prosecutors, defense attorneys, law enforcement personnel/agencies, and court personnel. Part 3, "A Walk through the Criminal Justice System," is a step-by-step journey through a criminal trial, from jury selection to the verdict, sentencing, and an appeal. Defendants' rights are discussed for various stages of criminal processing. The concepts and principles of U.S. constitutional amendments are explained, accompanied by numerous case examples. Additional topics address statute changes, new cases, and a discussion of the provisions of the Patriot Act. This second edition includes sections on "Key Words to Define" and "Questions for Review and Discussion" at the end of each chapter. 50 references, an annotated listing of resource Web sites, and case and subject indexes