This reference work provides basic information, descriptions, and explanations of how laws governing criminal behavior are made and enforced, and corrections for those who violate criminal law.

• Where do police get their power over citizens?
• Who polices the police?
• What is the difference between parole and probation?
• What is the recidivism rate for prisoners?
• What is the difference between civil and criminal law?
• What is an arraignment?

Answers to these and over 500 more questions are found in CQ’s Desk Reference on American Criminal Justice. This is the only book in a reference format that provides quick access and easy-to-find information for students and citizens who need to acquire a basic and comprehensive understanding of our system of law enforcement, courts in the context of criminal law, and corrections. Supporting the curriculum for criminal justice as it is studied in American government, history, and law enforcement courses in high schools and colleges, this reference volume will also cover any questions your patrons and students may have on public issues such as police brutality, prison reform, and juvenile justice.

"Barnes’ collection of questions and answers on the American criminal justice system is an excellent contribution to Congressional Quarterly’s Desk Reference Series on American government. . . . This book is highly recommended for all libraries. People with questions about the criminal justice system would be well-advised to look to this book first to answer their questions."

- American Reference Books Annual

"...perfect source whether you are looking up a specific question about the criminal justice system or just a trivia buff browsing for information. Recommended for the high school reference collection."

Patricia G. Barnes is the author of CQ's Desk Reference on American Criminal Justice and CQ's Desk Reference on American Courts (2000). She is the editor of a three-volume series, Domestic Violence: From a Private Mattter to a Federal Offense (1998), and is a frequent contributor to national legal publications. She received her J.D. from the West Virginia University College of Law.

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