This bestselling, classic textbook provides a clear and straightforward account of criminal law, while also introducing current debates about the nature, scope and functions of the law and discussing wider controversies surrounding the basic doctrines. Written by one of the UK's leading experts on criminal law, this book is compact yet comprehensive, well-structured, stimulating and engaging.

This is an ideal text for all students taking undergraduate and GDL/CPE courses in criminal law. Each chapter includes a Case Notes section which gives, in respect of the key cases mentioned in the text, a short account of the facts and decision.