The contributors to this book assess the state of the debate on the privatization of justice. Key aspects of the arguments are examined and compared, as the authors clarify both the theoretical issues and the practical problems involved in the privatization of justice. The nature of the state and its relation to a monopoly of violence constitutes the main theoretical issue. Other debates which are covered include the existing role of private security firms in policing, the historical precedents for private justice and the experience of private prisons, particularly in North America. This book will be of interest to academics and professionals in criminology and criminal justice.