Description
This Criminal Law Casebook, 6th Edition is designed for use in introductory law school courses covering the substantive principles of criminal law. The book places particular emphasis on the general principles of criminal liability, helping students understand the foundational concepts that shape criminal law doctrine and policy.
The casebook focuses extensively on the core topics traditionally known as the general part of criminal law, including criminal acts and mental states, responsibility and culpability, justification and excuse defenses, inchoate offenses, and liability for the actions of others.
A distinctive feature of this text is its emphasis on the role of the legislative branch in addressing and resolving the complex policy questions that arise in criminal law. By examining both judicial decisions and legislative approaches, the book encourages students to think critically about how criminal law develops and evolves.
Key Topics Covered
- Principles of substantive criminal law
- Criminal acts (actus reus)
- Criminal intent and mental states (mens rea)
- Responsibility and culpability
- Justification and excuse defenses
- Inchoate crimes, including attempt, conspiracy, and solicitation
- Accomplice liability and responsibility for the conduct of others
- Criminal law policy and legislative reform
- Judicial interpretation and statutory analysis
New Features in the Sixth Edition
The sixth edition has been substantially enhanced with updated scholarly and judicial materials, including:
- Excerpts from more than 100 new appellate court decisions
- Discussions based on over 50 recent law review articles
- Expanded Notes and Questions sections throughout the book
- Updated analysis of contemporary criminal law issues and policy debates
- Additional materials that encourage critical thinking and classroom discussion
Why This Casebook Is Valuable
- Provides comprehensive coverage of the foundational principles of criminal law
- Emphasizes both doctrine and policy considerations
- Integrates judicial opinions with legislative perspectives
- Encourages analytical and critical-thinking skills
- Includes extensive supplementary materials from recent cases and legal scholarship
- Ideal for first-year law students and introductory criminal law courses
This casebook serves as an essential resource for students seeking a deeper understanding of substantive criminal law and the policy considerations that influence the development of criminal justice systems.
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