An overview of the history and development of law focuses on the foundations of American criminal jurisprudence in the English common law tradition. This is followed by discussions of criminal law characteristics, essential elements in crime definitions, and a brief overview of contemporary sources of criminal law. Basic theories about the origins and uses of law are considered, as are various models proposed to justify punishment by the state. A chapter identifies limitations on conduct that may be defined as criminal and some constitutional limits on the state's prosecution efforts, followed by a chapter on problems the state must address to claim jurisdiction over particular offenses and offenders. The concluding chapter reviews common justifications, defenses, and excuses defendants use when charged with criminal violations. 100 references and case law and subject indexes.