Now with the AI-powered study tool

Criminal Law Today, 8th edition

Published by Pearson (21 July 2026) © 2027

  • Frank Schmalleger Emeritus, University of North Carolina
  • John P Feldmeier Miami University of Ohio
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

Currently unavailable

Title overview

Criminal Law Today brings criminal law to life through real headlines, actual court cases and coverage of today's most pressing legal issues. Viewing law as a vital policymaking tool, the authors explore the challenges of continually adapting the law to a rapidly changing society. Real-world context helps you grasp the fundamental nature of law, general legal principles and how the law functions in society.

The 8th Edition has been updated to reflect recent events, including Derek Chauvin's trial, the Menendez case reconsideration, emerging digital crimes and more. Updated Criminal Law in the News boxes in each chapter highlight recent issues that illustrate the variety of legal perspectives found at federal, state and local levels.

Table of contents

  1. The Nature and History of Criminal Law
  2. Criminal Liability and the Essence of Crime
  3. Expanding the Concept of Crime
  4. Extending Criminal Liability: Inchoate Offenses and Parties to Crime
  5. Justifications as Defenses
  6. Defenses: Excuses and Insanity
  7. Crimes against Persons: Homicide
  8. Crimes against Persons: Assault, Sex Offenses, and Other Crimes
  9. Property and Computer Crimes
  10. Offenses against Public Order and the Administration of Justice
  11. Offenses against Public Morality
  12. Terrorism and Human Trafficking
  13. Victims and the Law
  14. Punishment and Sentencing

Appendix A: How to Brief a Case

Appendix B: Model Penal Code Excerpts

Need help?Get in touch