This text explores the adversary system of criminal justice, tracing the steps that precede trial, as well as the trial process itself, providing insight into problems in the criminal justice process, with U.S. Supreme Court cases adding impact and relevance. This edition provides added detail on the challenge of dealing with terrorist suspects as well as legal issues related to legislation such as the USA Patriot Act. Each chapter includes outline, key terms and concepts. Contains glossary, selected provisions of the U.S. Constitution, and a table of cases appearing in the text.