Criminal Courts
A Contemporary Perspective
Sixth Edition
- Craig Hemmens - Washington State University, USA
- David C. Brody - Washington State University, USA
- Cassia Spohn - Arizona State University, USA
August 2025 | SAGE Publications, Inc
Comprehensive and engaging, Criminal Courts: A Contemporary Perspective deepens your students' understanding by thoroughly examining the courts and their vital role in the criminal justice system. The Sixth Edition introduces updated content, including discussions on evolving marijuana laws, the balance between victims' and defendants' rights, court-administered bail, and domestic violence courts.
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
Section I: The Purpose and Structure of American Courts
Chapter 1: Introduction: Law and the Judicial Function
Chapter 2: Sources of Law
Chapter 3: Types of Law
Chapter 4: Court Organization and Structure
Section II: Courtroom Actors and The Courtroom Work Group
Chapter 5: Prosecutors
Chapter 6: Defense Attorneys
Chapter 7: Judges
Chapter 8: Criminal Defendants and Crime Victims
Chapter 9: The Jury
Section III: Court Processes
Chapter 10: Pretrial Procedures
Chapter 11: The Criminal Trial
Chapter 12: Sentencing
Chapter 13: The Appellate Process
Chapter 14: Specialized Courts
Glossary
References and Suggested Reading
Case Index
General Index