Now with the AI-powered study tool

Courts and Criminal Justice in America, 4th edition

Published by Pearson (9 February 2026) © 2027

  • Larry J. Siegel
  • Frank Schmalleger Emeritus, University of North Carolina
  • John L. Worrall University of Texas at Dallas
Products list

In this eTextbook — More ways to learn

  • More support. Get AI help with personalized summaries, instant explanations, and quick translations.
  • More flexible. Start learning right away, on any device.
  • More interactive. Learn through audio, video, and practice.
  • More memorable. Study better with notes, highlights, and flashcards.
 
Products list

In this eTextbook — More ways to learn

  • More support. Get AI help with personalized summaries, instant explanations, and quick translations.
  • More flexible. Start learning right away, on any device.
  • More interactive. Learn through audio, video, and practice.
  • More memorable. Study better with notes, highlights, and flashcards.
 
Products list

Details

  • A print edition you can rent
  • Fulfilled by eCampus.com
  • Option to keep after rental expires

Title overview

Courts and Criminal Justice in America provides a balanced, modern introduction to America’s court system. Assuming no prior knowledge of the courts, the authors examine the basic structure of the court system and its processes. Cases illustrate the power of the courts to regulate citizens’ lives and strike a balance between rights and liberties.

The 4th Edition has been thoroughly updated to reflect the latest cases, research and statistics throughout. Updated chapter-opening stories set key concepts within the context of recent newsworthy events. New Courts 2.0 features examine technological advances in the nation’s courts. And new Social Justice and the Courts features present balanced discussions of controversial court cases.

Table of contents

  1. Legal Foundations
  2. Who Controls the Courts?
  3. Federal Courts
  4. State Courts
  5. Juvenile Courts
  6. Specialized Courts
  7. Judges
  8. Prosecutors
  9. Defense Attorneys
  10. Defendants and Victims: Their Roles and Rights
  11. Pretrial Procedures
  12. Plea Bargaining and Guilty Pleas
  13. The Jury and the Trial
  14. Sentencing, Appeals and Habeas Corpus
  15. Differential Treatment and Wrongful Convictions
  16. Technology, Alternatives and the Future

Need help?Get in touch