Message to Students
Hi there! Welcome to Introduction to Criminal Justice. I’m thrilled that you’re here. This book is designed for every student interested in learning about our legal system. Whether you’re considering a future career in criminal justice or simply fulfilling a course requirement, I hope you find this book informative and inspiring as you begin your journey.
As John F. Kennedy once said, “Our privileges can be no greater than our obligations. The protection of our rights can endure no longer than the performance of our responsibilities.” No matter your reason for reading, I believe you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of your rights and a strong desire to protect justice in our society.
Introduction to Criminal Justice is my favorite class to teach, and I’ve been passionate about it since I started teaching in 2011. Making this book free and openly licensed means more people can understand how our system works, which ultimately helps protect our rights as a whole.
In this book, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the basics of criminal justice, covering topics like police, courts, corrections, juvenile law, legal and criminal theory, and crime data. What sets this book apart is its engaging approach, starting each section with questions and key terms to ensure you grasp the essentials before moving forward. I attempted to explain complex topics using student-relevant examples to make the material more relatable and easier to understand. To make the most of your time with this book, take a moment to reflect on how the material impacts your life. If you have extra time, explore the many videos and links provided for a deeper dive into the topics.
As you use this book, I invite you to provide feedback that will help improve it for future students. Just as in the legal system, small errors can occur, but it’s important to focus on the spirit rather than the letter of the law. Your insights and suggestions are invaluable in making this resource even better. Thank you for being part of this learning experience, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Now click the button in the lower right corner labeled “Next →” to turn the page!
