What is the definition of a crime ? How did lawmaking first begin? What were the two great influences on the laws of Western democracies? What is the first step in the trial of a person accused of a crime? How are laws made in the United States? Can a defendant be tried in absentia? What is the sole exception to the rule against hearsay evidence? These and many more questions about criminal law as it functions in this country are answered in this lucid and detailed exposition of American criminal law at work.

The author provides some historical background, chapters on how laws are made, federal courts, state courts, trial procedures and juries. A criticism of double standards in court, judicial sentencing problems and rules of evidence rounds out the book. – School Library Journal