Introduction to Criminal Justice provides students with a comprehensive overview of four key, topical areas within criminal justice: the law, the police, the courts, and corrections.

In Unit I, The Law, students read articles that examine the purpose of the law in general, as well as the specific purposes of criminal law, and also address the complex question of "What is crime?" Unit II features readings that focus on law enforcement in America, police operations, and police discretion. Students consider the unique roles of police officers and how their professional responsibilities often conflict with each other, sometimes resulting in conflict and tension within the communities they are meant to serve.

In Unit III, The Courts, students are presented with an overview of the U.S. court system; the qualifications, roles, and responsibilities of key decision-makers in criminal courts; and the sentencing of convicted offenders. The final unit explains how the theories, purposes, and techniques of punishment have changed over the centuries and explores the state of corrections in modern-day practice.

Designed to provide students with an invaluable knowledge base in the discipline, Introduction to Criminal Justice is an ideal textbook for foundational courses and programs in criminal justice.