ABSTRACT

This practical, comprehensive, and engaging introduction to the American judicial system is designed primarily for undergraduate students in criminal justice, liberal arts, political science, and beginning law. It differs from other texts not only by delivering an insider’s view of the courts, but also by demonstrating how the judicial process operates at the intersection of law and politics.

Unlike the many dull and inaccessible texts in this field, May It Please The Court conveys the human drama of civil and criminal litigation. With an updated epilogue, case studies, and discussion questions, this third edition is a robust resource for criminal justice students.

chapter 1|28 pages

Courts and Judges in the Political Process

chapter 2|42 pages

American Courts

Structures and Procedures

chapter 3|38 pages

Lawyers and Lawyering

chapter 4|42 pages

Judicial Selection and Removal

chapter 5|38 pages

Norm Enforcement

The Criminal Justice Process

chapter 6|42 pages

Dispute Resolution

The Civil Justice Process

chapter 7|36 pages

Policy Making

The Appellate Process

chapter 9|32 pages

Limits of Judicial Policy Making

chapter 10|8 pages

Summary and Conclusion