The text recognizes that the diversity of criminal law, according to place, requires students to concentrate on basic principles. It explains not only principles and doctrines but also contrasts formulations and applications among jurisdictions, demonstrating that criminal law offers no right or wrong application and no uniform interpretation of rules. Cases highlight and illustrate general principles and doctrines in the context of real life. They demonstrate how courts arrive at different conclusions and apply principles to the specific facts of individual cases. Chapter outlines, main points, and key terms provide a road map for students to follow; questions for review and discussion and suggested readings are also included. Chapters focus on the nature and origin of criminal law, general principles of criminal law and criminal liability, parties to crime and the doctrine of complicity, uncompleted crimes (attempt, solicitation, and conspiracy), criminal liability defenses (justifications and excuses), crimes against the person (homicide and criminal sexual conduct), crimes against the habitation (burglary and arson), crimes against property, and crimes against public order and morals. An appendix contains the U.S. Constitution. A table of cases, a glossary, and an index are included. Notes and tables