Learning about crime pays Most people watch television shows such as Law and Order and see a simplified version of the world of cops and courtrooms. In fact, the American criminal justice system is one of the most complex legal establishments in the world. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the Criminal Justice System de-mystifies the complexity of the judicial establishment and the bureaucracy behind it in a clear, jargon-free and detailed portrait so that any citizen can understand how it works. • Public is highly interested in criminal investigations and trials • Also a useful resource for people planning to enter these fields • Includes detailed glossary of legal terms

De- mystifies the complexity of the judicial establishment and the bureaucracy behind it in a clear, jargon-free and detailed portrait so that any citizen can understand how it works.

This book is the ideal entry point to learning about criminal investigation and forensics, including both the theoretical and practical aspects of the ways society copes with, and the way law enforcement investigates, crime today.

Have you been confused by a lawsuit? We can help. Millions of civil lawsuits are filed in the U.S. court system, costing billions of dollars in legal fees to those involved. The process is so complex that few people can pursue civil action without professional help, leaving them totally at a lawyer's mercy. Yet how many people truly know what they're getting into when they're involved in a lawsuit? The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Lawsuits clarifies the entire process in layman's terms. Expert litigator and law professor Victoria E. Green offers valuable insight into: • The pros and cons of filing lawsuits • How they begin and each party's response • Selecting and paying attorneys • Consequences of the settlement and appeals

Conduct an investigation into the world of forensic science. Understand why the law determines which evidence may or may not be used; discover just how accurate--or inaccurate-- lie detectors are; take a tour of a police crime lab; learn how insects and plants affect a cause-of-death analysis; note the similarities and differences in analyzing fibers and hairs, drugs, soil, glass, and firearms; examine the history behind fingerprinting; remember that an investigator's ultimate weapon is information.

The most straightforward overview available. Covers the entire criminal justice system. A ‘no frills’ explanation for beginners. This basic guide sets out the main components of the criminal justice system in an accessible way. Intended as a starting point for readers coming to the subject for the first time it is ideal for new staff, volunteers, first year students and other ‘rookies’: a short book of facts, explanations and pointers to further study. Chapters: 1. What is Crime? 2. What is Criminal Justice? 3. Who’s Who? 4. Modern Developments 5. The Police 6. The Criminal Courts in Action 7. Sentencing (including Probation Work) 8. Prisons and Imprisonment 9. Victims and Restorative Justice 10. Causes of Crime The book also features the Rule of Law, risk assessment, decision-making, forensic investigation, witnesses, surveillance, criminology, crime reduction strategies, border controls, penal reform and some international and historical dimensions. With a Glossary of Words, Phrases and Abbreviations.

Covers creating a home security plan, assessing local public safety agencies, planning a budget, alarm systems, home survellience, and protecting a car.