NCJ Number
185886
Date Published
2000
Length
573 pages
Annotation
Filled with new topics such as sexual predator laws, abuse excuses, and many news-based examples, this overview text covers general principles of criminal law and discusses these principles in terms of specific crimes.
Abstract
The first part of the text deals with basic concepts of criminal law. Chapters specifically look at the scope, purposes, and sources of criminal law and at essential elements of a crime, criminal liability, criminal responsibility and the capacity to commit a crime, law governing the use of force, criminal defenses, punishment, and jurisdiction. The second part of the text focuses on balancing constitutional rights with the need for public order. Chapters address limits of free speech, maintaining public order in public and private places, and limits of other freedoms. The remaining parts of the text discuss crimes against the person (homicide and assault and battery), crimes against property (theft, robbery, burglary, shoplifting, crimes against businesses and corporations, and fraud), sex crimes (rape, prostitution, and AIDS), and other criminal conduct (drug abuse and alcohol-related crime, gangs, organized crime, terrorism, and crime of contempt and other crimes against government). Appendixes contain applicable sections of the U.S. Constitution and a glossary of legal terms. Notes, figures, and photographs