The Criminal Law Handbook - 18th Edition by Paul Bergman & Sara J Berman (Paperback)

About the Book

Criminal law books are usually geared for lawyers. This reference book is the preeminent overview of the criminal justice system for consumers and explains how the system really works in plain English. It's for anyone interested in the criminal justice system, from those personally involved in it to those who simply want to understand it. It's a perfect gift for law students and friends who love true-crime shows and podcasts.

Book Synopsis

The criminal justice system is complicated. Understand it and your rights.

This book demystifies the complex rules and procedures of criminal law. It explains how the system works, why police, lawyers, and judges do what they do, and what suspects, defendants, and prisoners can expect. It also provides critical information on working with a lawyer.

In plain English, The Criminal Law Handbook covers:

• search and seizure
  
• arrest, booking, and bail
  
• Miranda rights
  
• arraignment
  
• plea bargains
  
• trials
  
• sentencing
  
• common defenses
  
• working with defense attorneys
  
• constitutional rights
  
• juvenile court
  
• legal terms and definitions
  
• appeals
  
• public defenders
  
• victims' rights
  

This edition is completely updated, covering the latest in criminal law, including U.S. Supreme Court cases.

Review Quotes

"An excellent and balanced guide to the state court criminal justice process..." Library Journal

"This easy-to-understand book contains everything you need to know about criminal law." Roger Cossack, Legal Analyst

"A well written, helpful guide for laypersons interested in their legal rights--straightforward, non-intimidating and informative." Laurie Levenson, Associate Dean, Loyola School of Law

Author Comments: The Criminal Law Handbook is written in an easy-to-understand question-and-answer format. It explains the criminal justice system inside and outside the courtroom. Whatever prompts your interest, the criminal justice system belongs to you. You have a right to know how it works. This book tells you what you never learned in high school civics: how the system really works.