Book excerpt: Intended for an undergraduate criminal law course within a criminal justice program, A Brief Introduction to Criminal Law, Second Edition provides a gentle introduction to the subject ideal for students that do not intend to pursue law school. The principles of criminal law are explained step-by-step with a focus on the professional applications of legal principles within the criminal justice system. The second edition contains more and updated case studies, additional coverage of Consitutional law and terrorism, and enhanced figures and tables. Written in a conversational tone, A Brief Introduction to Criminal Law, Second Edition is the ideal resource for undergraduate students taking a criminal law course.