Simester and Sullivan's Criminal Law - Fourth Edition: Theory and Doctrine

`We wanted to write a text on the substantive criminal law which has depth as well as breadth, a book that takes the detail seriously as well as the underlying principles. Our aim was to show the criminal law as a process of argument, not simplistic answers-to write a book that can be read, not merely consulted.' Andrew Simester and Bob Sullivan

This is the fourth edition of the leading textbook on criminal law by Professors Simester and Sullivan. Established as an outstanding modern account of English criminal law, it combines detailed, authoritative exposition of the law with careful exploration of its theoretical underpinnings. It is designed for use in undergraduate teaching, and previous editions have proved very popular with recent cohorts of student. The book has also established itself as a major point of reference in academic writing, here and abroad, and has been cited in appellate courts throughout the world, including the House of Lords, the High Court of Australia, the Supreme Court of Canada, and the Special Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

This edition features coverage of major new developments including: the Serious Crime Act 2007; the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 provisions on selfdefence and sentencing; the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007; and the Coroners and Criminal Justice Act 2009, including full treatment of the new law on provocation and diminished responsibility brought in by this Act. There is also a discussion of recent homicide law reform initiatives and of reform proposals in conspiracy, attempts, and complicity law.

`This is probably the most significant book on criminal law to be published for many years, because it combines a high level of detail on the relevant cases and statutes with a searching examination of theoretical arguments that point directions for the development of law and legal doctrines...certainly sufficient for any undergraduate or postgraduate course. This is a carefully researched, well-written and balanced book, and a fine example of many of the best features of legal scholarship.' Professor Andrew Ashworth, Law Quarterly Review

`...in this magisterial work on English Criminal law...the authors have taken the art of textbook writing to a new level of sophistication...Simester and Sullivan's new book can without question be regarded as taking its place alongside the work of Williams, and of Smith and Hogan...and has been splendidly produced.' Professor Jeremy Horder, The Criminal Law Review