Book excerpt: ′This book is a triumph in its clarity, scholarship and sheer scope. It is increasingly vital that criminologists understand crime and the criminal justice system in depth, and Ursula Smartt unmasks the mysteries and lays bare the complexities of law like few other writers on the subject. This is the book on criminal law that should be on the shelf of everyone connected to the criminal law′ - Baroness Helena Kennedy QC ′Law for Criminologists is a timely and concise introduction for those in criminology and law. Combining accessibility and scholarship, it will be welcomed by students and lecturers alike′ - Dr Azrini Wahidin, Reader and Programme Director for Criminology, Queen′s University Belfast ′Highly informative, comprehensive and reader-friendly - this groundbreaking book is essential reading for all who are engaged in the study of criminology′ - Peter Joyce, Manchester Metropolitan University This practical guide introduces students to the basic principles of the law, enabling a comprehensive understanding of criminology and criminal justice. Law for Criminologists will enthuse the student and teacher about the law whilst giving sound advice on how to achieve a thorough comprehension of the topic. Striking a much-needed balance between essential law for criminologists, and commentary on current legal issues, this book provides the reader with a full understanding of: " the workings of the law in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland " the European Union legal frameworks " the law of evidence and the criminal process " punishment and sentencing " human rights issues " the differences between youth justice and adult criminal legislation " how to undertake independent legal research and further reading in the discipline. Packed with extensive learning aids including case studies, boxed notes, sample examination questions, appendices of statutes and cases and a comprehensive glossary, this book is vital for all students in criminology and criminal justice. As well as an extensive foreword by Baroness Helena Kennedy QC.