NCJ Number
76306
Date Published
1981
Length
297 pages
Annotation
This text presents a detailed description of the operations of a criminal justice system in a democratic society and emphasizes the constitutional safeguards established for the protection of all persons.
Abstract
The text explains the objectives of the criminal law, explores the balance between the police power of the community and the fundamental freedoms guaranteed to all persons under the Constitution, and shows the dimensions of the employee roles in the agencies of criminal justice. The text also explains the role of the police in detecting crime and in apprehending criminal suspects; outlines court control of police investigation techniques; and describes the role of the prosecutor, grand-jury proceedings and the preliminary hearing in developing the accusation of crime before trial. Additional topics covered in the text include the arraignment for pleading, pretrial detention and release, actions and motions before trial, the judiciary and judicial power, and the preparation for trial. The text also explores direct and cross-examination, the trial of offenders as a process in the administration of justice, the special problems of juveniles in the administration of justice, the sentencing function of the judiciary and its objectives, and the dimensions of the correctional system including treatment programs. The rights of both prisoners and parolees are discussed, and the process of disengagement from a pattern of criminal behavior is described as well as the evaluative research necessary for upgrading the administration of justice. Each chapter contains several discussion questions and references. A bibliography, a glossary, and appendixes with information on constitutional rights are supplied.