American Courts and the Judicial Process

"This text's approach is very student friendly; it starts with an overview of the criminal justice system and then moves on to the courts and the levels of the courts. That is brilliant."--Patrick Ibe, Albany State University

"I love this approach because it makes it easy for students to read and understand often complex issues as they pertain to our court systems."--Kizzy V. Crawford-Heath, Wake Technical Community College

"This book provides an excellent overview of the U.S. courts in a manner that is appropriate for first- and second-year college students."--Lisa Kara, Blue Ridge Community College

Featuring the insights of criminal justice scholars G. Larry Mays and Laura Woods Fidelie, American Courts and the Judicial Process, Second Edition, is ideal for undergraduate courts courses. It examines the many elements of the U.S. court system--its structures, functions, and key actors--addressing the major problems facing the system and considering potential solutions. This unique text also provides students with a practical perspective, discussing the contrast between the law and the rules as they are written and the ways in which they actually play out in the real world. The book is enhanced by "In the News" boxes that discuss contemporary events and "World View" boxes covering international courts and legal systems.