Contemporary Criminal Law: Concepts, Cases, and Controversies

Contemporary Criminal Law, Fifth Edition combines the traditional concepts taught in undergraduate criminal law courses with thought-provoking cases and engaging learning tools. Matthew Lippman covers both foundational and emerging legal topics such as terrorism, gangs, cyber crime, and hate crimes, in a student-friendly and approachable manner. Clear explanations of criminal law and defenses are complemented by provocative, well-edited cases followed by discussion questions to stimulate critical thinking and in-class discussion. The Fifth Edition includes new cases throughout, offering the most up-to-date coverage of evolving legal opinions and developments in criminal law. The book’s student-friendly, clear style makes legal concepts approachable and manageable for undergraduate students. The popular You Decide features are based on actual cases and ask students to assume the role of a judge to arrive at a decision on the case; answers are found on the student study site. Icons throughout the book direct students to the robust student study site with state-specific supplements, self quizzes, podcasts, extra cases, answers to the You Decide scenarios, and more. Crime in the News boxes, Legal Equations, and Cases and Comments engage students with the material presented in the chapters and deepen their understanding of how criminal law functions in the real world.