NCJ Number
201841
Date Published
2000
Length
477 pages
Annotation
This book offers basic information about crime and the process of justice.
Abstract
Chapter 1 focuses on crime and the nature of law, touching upon crime as a social construct and legal definition, and common law, Constitutional law, statutory law, and administrative law. The legal and behavioral aspects of crime are the focal point of chapter 2. The crime categories are described, as well as the behavior systems of crime. In chapter 3, Uniform Crime Reports are explained, as well as victim survey research, self-reported criminal behavior, and other sources of data on crime and justice. Chapter 4 provides an overview of criminal justice and procedure. Due process and the criminal justice process are discussed. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 focus on police and policing, police and the Constitution, and police misconduct. Chapter 8 discusses the American courts and the right to counsel. Chapter 9 explains the court process from first appearance through trial. Chapter 10 covers sentencing, appellate review, and the death penalty. Chapters 11, 12, and 13 describe the prison experience and the conditions of incarceration and the Constitutional rights of prisoners. Chapter 14 introduces the concept of community-based correction. Chapter 15 describes the history of juvenile justice, the procedure through the juvenile justice system, and critical issues, including status offenders, juveniles in adult courts, and juvenile detention. Each chapter ends with a summary, key terms, discussion questions, and media resources. 76 exhibits