Combining the best features of a casebook and a textbook, this classic text deals with substantive criminal law, and explores the principles, sources, distinctions and limitations of criminal law. Definitions and elements of crimes are explained, and defenses to crimes are thoroughly analyzed. Strengths continue to be the comprehensive footnotes, coverage of the federal criminal code, and specific recognition of the common law origins of modern law. Federal law coverage is now consolidated into two chapters.

Each chapter contains a list of key terms that are defined in the glossary, guidance to help the student understand what is important in each chapter, as well as a new Legal News section that highlights current criminal law issues. Part II gives students the opportunity to read real cases, with aids to help them identify the issues and holdings.