The nature and causes of crime are reviewed, and preliminary crimes, including solicitation, attempt, and conspiracy, are discussed. Also addressed are crimes against the person, including homicide, assault and battery, and rape, as well as crimes against property, including arson, robbery, larceny, embezzlement, burglary, forgery, and extortion. Controversial crimes such as drug and sex offenses are also considered, and possible defenses in a criminal case are described. An overview is given of what happens to persons from the time they are arrested until they are released from state control. Search and seizure, interrogations and confessions, booking and initial appearances, bail and pretrial release, felony arraignment and pleas, rights to an attorney and to confront witnesses, and sentences are examined. juvenile court procedures are outlined, and consumer protection laws are described. Family law is defined, and issues such as adoption, foster care, divorce, child custody, alimony, and social insurance programs are addressed. The advantages of renting and buying are analyzed, and guidance as to what consumers should do if they suffer discrimination is supplied. Individual rights and liberties such as freedom of speech and the right to privacy are defined. A glossary is included, as are 18 figures and numerous illustrations.