Comparative Criminal Justice Systems: A Topical Approach

Unique in its topical approach, this best-selling book examines systems of law, police, courts, and corrections by using more than 30 different countries to show the diversity in legal systems around the world. The book's organization helps readers understand the various ways policing, adjudication, and corrections systems can be organized and operated. This edition features more complete coverage of Islamic legal tradition, information on reform in Japan, more use of primary sources and updated material throughout. Fully updated to include more information on: The Patriot Act; Sunni and Shia Muslims; Substantive and procedural law changes for France, Germany, and Nigeria; Inquisitorial and adversarial systems; Trial under an inquisitorial proces; Juvenile justice system changes in England, Wales and China. Gives greater attention to the Islamic legal tradition and includes detailed descriptions of its key aspects. Reflect up-to-date events in Japanese criminal justice and covers changes that have been officially approved, but are not yet fully implemented. References the actual laws of many countries and provides additional information supplied by that country’s criminal justice agency. Anyone interested in criminal justice across the world.

Since the first edition of this book the topic of comparative and international criminal justice has enjoyed increased attention by authors, journals and professional organizations in criminology and criminal justice. Consistent with these changes, more graduate and undergraduate courses are being taught with comparative issues as the primary subject matter.

New to the Fourth Edition:

• Chapter Two has been completely restructured to cover the increasing importance of transnational crime.
• Chapter Three has been greatly expanded to include a section on "liberty, safety, and fighting terrorism"
• Chapter Eight has been completely revised to provide an emphasis on types of sanctions rather than simply describing prison systems.

Two new pedagogical features have been added:

• What to Look For: Beginning each chapter are bulleted items that direct the student's attention to the key topics that will be covered in the chapter.
• Web Projects: these projects are scattered throughout each chapter and can be used as assignments by instructors or simply as interesting sites for students to visit.