Constitutional Law and the Criminal Justice System

While other constitutional law texts tend to be either government-oriented (for political science courses) or casebooks (for pre-law courses), this text's unique approach -- featuring a pedagogical framework for concept mastery, diverse real-world examples and succinct case summaries written in plain English -- places it in a category by itself.

"Case in Brief" boxes present concise summaries of relevant case law so as to avoid overwhelming students.

"In the News" boxes use recent headline cases to vividly illustrate chapter material.

"Myth/Fact" boxes help dispel some popular misconceptions regarding constitutional issues as they relate to contemporary policing in the United States.

"Constitutional Law in Action" features offer additional examples of key chapter concepts in practice -- including proper and improper police actions and the results -- and conclude with debate questions to stimulate critical thinking and class discussion.

The authors' signature four-point learning system helps students master chapter concepts. Numbered learning objectives at the beginning of each chapter outline what students will learn as they read, while Key Terms lists provide essential words students need to know to understand the chapter material. Numbered boxes throughout each chapter repeat the learning objectives and summarize the related concepts. In addition, end-of-chapter material includes a summary and discussion questions that further reinforce key concepts and encourage students to critically examine them.