The Handbook of the Criminal Justice Process

The Handbook of Criminal Justice Process is a new and authoritative account of the criminal justice system in England and Wales that engages with the central issues common to any major criminal justice system. Compiling the thoughts and opinions of leading figures in this field of law, this volume provides comprehensive coverage of all the key areas of the system presenting a sequential account from investigation through to final appeal. The authors aim to present the English Legal system as an example of one way of attempting to deal with problems involved in the administration of criminal justice, highlighting the general problems as well as the current English response and including the points at which decisions have to be made and the reasons behind them. Taken together, the chapters provide for the first time, a description of a dynamic and developing criminal justice system at work - comparing the mechanics of the system in theory and practice, the problems it faces and possible solutions, the values it reflects and the goals it pursues. The Handbook also makes a clear division between the formal structure and the way it is implemented, modified or supplemented and identifies the factors which impact on its success or failure in practice. This new work is essential reading for all those studying elements of criminal justice and criminology. It offers not only a clear understanding of the way the current English legal system works but will equip the reader with a greater knowledge of criminal procedure in general and where and why choices have to be made.