An introductory chapter discusses the development of the constitution and the history of the Bill of Rights. Eleven additional chapters explain the substantive content of the first eight amendments and corresponding State provisions, with emphasis on recent court interpretations and trends. The discussions cover the freedom of speech, press, and assembly; the authority to detain and arrest; search and seizure; wiretapping and eavesdropping; and interrogations and confessions. Also discussed are self-incrimination, the right to counsel, double jeopardy, and the right to a fair trial and humane punishment. Further discussion covers civil rights, civil rights legislation, and personnel regulations and the constitution. The text also includes leading U. S. Supreme Court decisions relating to each of the 11 chapters analyzing the constitution's provisions. An appendix presents the text of the constitution and its amendments, a table of cases, and an index.