American Criminal Courts: Legal Process and Social Context is an introductory-level text that offers a comprehensive study of the legal processes that guide criminal courts and the social contexts that introduce variations in the activities of actors inside and outside the court. Specifically the text focuses upon: Legal Processes. U.S. criminal courts are constrained by several legal processes and organizational structures that determine how the courts operate and how laws are applied. This book explores how democratic processes develop the criminal law in the United States, the documents that define law (federal and state constitutions, legal codes, administrative policies), the organizational structure of courts at the federal and state levels, the overlapping authority of the appeals process, and the effect of legal processes such as precedent, jurisdiction, and the underlying legal philosophies of various types of courts. Although most texts on criminal courts do a credible job of describing legal processes, this text looks more deeply into the origins of criminal law, historic turning points in the criminal law, conditions that affect the decision-making of criminal justice practitioners, and the contentious political process that affects how criminal laws are considered. Social Contexts. The criminal courts are staffed by people who represent different perspectives, occupational pressures, and organizational goals. The text includes chapters on actors in the traditional courtroom workgroup (judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys), as well as those outside the court who seek to influence it, including advocacy groups, media, and politicians. It is the interplay between the court legal processes and the social actors in the courtroom that makes the application of the criminal laws so fascinating. By focusing on the tension between the law (legal processes) and the actors inside and outside the courts system (social contexts), this text demonstrates how the courts are a product of "law in action," and it presents the course content in a way that enables students to understand not only the "how" of the U.S. criminal court system but also the "why."

The Judicial Process: Law, Courts, and Judicial Politics is an all-new, concise yet comprehensive core text that introduces students to the nature and significance of the judicial process in the United States and across the globe. It is social scientific in its approach, situating the role of the courts and their impact on public policy within a strong foundation in legal theory, or political jurisprudence, as well as legal scholarship. Authors Christopher P. Banks and David M. O’Brien do not shy away from the politics of the judicial process, and offer unique insight into cutting-edge and highly relevant issues. In its distinctive boxes, "Contemporary Controversies over Courts" and "In Comparative Perspective," the text examines topics such as the dispute pyramid, the law and morality of same-sex marriages, the "hardball politics" of judicial selection, plea bargaining trends, the right to counsel and "pay as you go" justice, judicial decisions limiting the availability of class actions, constitutional courts in Europe, the judicial role in creating major social change, and the role lawyers, juries and alternative dispute resolution techniques play in the U.S. and throughout the world. Photos, cartoons, charts, and graphs are used throughout the text to facilitate student learning and highlight key aspects of the judicial process.

How to Represent Yourself in UK Family Court: A Comprehensive Guide" is an indispensable resource for individuals navigating the complexities of the UK family court system. Whether you are facing a divorce, child custody dispute, or other family-related matter, this book provides invaluable guidance on effectively representing yourself and protecting your family's rights. Written by experts in family law, this comprehensive guide takes you step-by-step through the entire process, from preparing your case to presenting it in court. You will gain a deep understanding of the UK family court system, the legal procedures involved, and the responsibilities that come with self-representation. Learn how to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case, gather evidence, and navigate the necessary court forms and documentation. With practical tips and strategies, you will gain confidence in presenting your arguments and examining witnesses effectively. The book also covers important topics such as child custody, access arrangements, division of assets, spousal maintenance, and domestic violence, providing insight into the specific issues you may encounter in family court. Furthermore, the guide addresses the emotional challenges that often accompany legal proceedings and offers guidance on self-care and seeking support. It provides a wealth of resources, including information on legal aid, online research tools, recommended books and websites, and support organizations that can assist you throughout your journey. Empowering and informative, "How to Represent Yourself in UK Family Court" equips you with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to navigate the legal process with confidence. Whether you choose self-representation or need to understand the proceedings better to work effectively with your legal team, this guide is an essential companion for anyone involved in family court matters in the UK. Disclaimer: This book is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional legal advice. It is recommended to consult with a qualified solicitor or legal professional for specific legal guidance tailored to your situation.

This Guide is not only easy to navigate, but also simple to understand. It will be welcomed by law professors and novice appellate attorneys all over North Carolina as a thorough, practical instruction manual on how to file or respond to an appeal in accordance with the Rules of Appellate Procedure. Existing texts are designed primarily to be a universal guide on persuasive writing and advocacy but lack specific references to the local requirements and corresponding North Carolina court decisions on this topic. Professor Williams has drawn on her extensive experience and anticipated questions that may be asked by a student or advocate of appellate law. Corresponding case references provide the reader with context. An extra tool is a thorough appendix with superb examples of appellate documents. This book is a must-have for any practicing, studying and/or interested in appellate law!

Makes a significant contribution to substantive representation, and examines the various political identities of justices in the American political system.