Chambliss, William J

Explores the criminal justice system of America and what makes a crime a crime, examining the criteria lawmakers and enforcers use to determine what crimes are punishable with which punishments, and how such things are determined in court.

Examines many aspects of policing in society, including their common duties, legal regulations on those duties, problematic policing practices, and alternatives to traditional policing.

Presents arguments both in favor of and opposed to various treatments, programs, and punishments, examining issues such as youth curfews, juveniles in adult courts, legal representation for juveniles, juvenile boot camps, group homes, and out-of-home placement.

Contains articles in which the authors address a variety of topics related to the correctional system, including capital punishment, furlough and work-release programs, preventive detention, religious rights, and others, and provides arguments for and against the practices of the laws and policies related to each issue.