This fascinating book recounts the compelling stories behind 14 of the most important criminal procedure cases in American legal history. Many constitutional protections that Americans take for granted today—the right to exclude illegally obtained evidence, the right to government-financed counsel, and the right to remain silent, among others—were not part of the original Bill of Rights, but were the result of criminal trials and judicial interpretations. The untold stories behind these cases reveal circumstances far more interesting than any legal dossier can evoke. Author J. Michael Martinez provides a brief introduction to the drama and intrigue behind 14 leading court cases in American law. This engaging text presents a short summary of high-profile legal proceedings from the late 19th century through recent times and includes key landmark cases in which the court established the parameters of probable cause for searches, the features of due process, and the legality of electronic surveillance. The work offers concise explanations and analysis of the facts as well as the lasting significance of the cases to criminal procedure.

This engaging and accessible book focuses on high-profile criminal trials and examines the strategy of the lawyers, the reasons for conviction or acquittal, as well as the social importance of these famous cases.

This fascinating book recounts the compelling stories behind 14 of the most important criminal procedure cases in American legal history. Many constitutional protections that Americans take for granted today--the right to exclude illegally obtained evidence, the right to government-financed counsel, and the right to remain silent, among others--were not part of the original Bill of Rights, but were the result of criminal trials and judicial interpretations. The untold stories behind these cases reveal circumstances far more interesting than any legal dossier can evoke. Author J. Michael Martinez provides a brief introduction to the drama and intrigue behind 14 leading court cases in American law. This engaging text presents a short summary of high-profile legal proceedings from the late 19th century through recent times and includes key landmark cases in which the court established the parameters of probable cause for searches, the features of due process, and the legality of electronic surveillance. The work offers concise explanations and analysis of the facts as well as the lasting significance of the cases to criminal procedure.

Groundbreaking cases in the American legal system. Through its interpretations of the Constitution and Bill of Rights, the Supreme Court issues decisions that shape American law, define the functioning of government and society,

"In his fascinating account of crime in Virginia, John F. Jebb explores the evidence, motives, and colorful personalities that captured the public's imagination during the course of the state's criminal trials. Presenting the crimes in context, the author blends Virginia law and history in an engaging and superbly written work> --Fred Shackelford, author of Judges Say the Darndest Things Includes . . . The controversial rape case of the Martinsville Seven The first murder in America to be convicted on DNA evidence The UVA honors students accused of murder The last-minute reprieve of Earl Washington Jr. based on DNA findings The Virginia Tech shootings AUTHOR: John F. Jebb is a graduate of the University of Virginia and participated in the New Castle County (Delaware) Citizens Police Academy. He teaches English at the University of Delaware and with J. K. Van Dover authored the book Isn't Justice Always Unfair?: The Detective in Southern Literature.

Ever wondered who murdered JonBenét Ramsey, or who terrorized San Francisco as the Zodiac Killer? Puzzled over the notorious Black Dahlia murder, or the shootings of Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls? This true crime anthology collects together some of the most intriguing unsolved murders in the world-cases that have baffled investigators for decade after decade. Sorting the facts from the speculation, Unsolved Murders: True Crime Cases Uncovered concisely explores each case, detailing essential evidence, profiles of suspects, and the twists and turns of police investigations. From domestic tragedies to sadistic serial killers, this book will have you returning to these cases again and again. Examine the evidence and decide for yourself: Who could have done it?