Using extensive examples from judicial decisions in capital cases, the text details each phase of case processing, starting with considerations involved in jury selection and guidelines on the voir dire process. Other sections focus on prejudicial pretrial publicity, bail in capital cases, notice of aggravating circumstances, defense investigation and use of psychiatrists, and court-ordered psychiatric evaluations. Other sections cover Pennsylvania law regarding incompetency, insanity, diminished capacity, and guilty but mentally ill; the need for the jury to find a specific intent to kill; specific aggravating factors; and each aspect of the sentencing phase.