Constitutional Law and Criminal Justice » (New Edition)

When evidence is excluded or a case is dismissed or overturned, it is puzzling that the redress of constitutional rights violations is spoken of so derisively. As a check on improper police and governmental behavior, the constitution is one of our strongest allies against corruption and malfeasance. Yet comprehension of this often vague document and the cases which seek to interpret it is frequently difficult. Written in a simple, straightforward manner, Constitutional Law and Criminal Justice examines the U.S. Constitution and its implication for criminal justice system policies and practices, clarifying principles in a concise yet comprehensive format. The book is carefully crafted to provide students with an easy-to-read explanation of the relationship between the two.

Plain Language Explanations of Constitutional Rights

Following an overview of the Bill of Rights, the book examines the components of the judiciary before focusing on due process; the first, fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth amendments; and the exclusionary rule. Additional chapters address civil liability and the criminal justice professional as well as the impact of terrorism on the right of habeas corpus.

Using review questions and relevant cases in each chapter to illustrate legal applications, this volume illuminates the concepts in plain language, eliminates unnecessary legal jargon, and clarifies the nuances in the law, making complicated concepts approachable by those without advanced legal training.

1 Introduction to the U.S. Constitution 1

2 The Concept of Due Process 33

3 Fourth Amendment 53

4 Fourth Amendment Issues 87

5 Exclusionary Rule 119

6 Fifth Amendment Issues 141

7 Sixth Amendment Issues 167

8 The Eighth Amendment 201

9 The First Amendment 229

10 Civil Liability and the Criminal Justice Professional 253

11 Terrorism and the Writ of Habeas Corpus 271

Glossary 279

References 287

App. A U.S. Constitution 301

App. B Search Warrants 321

App. C Grand Jury Indictment, August 2005 - at Alexandria, Virginia 337

Index 353