A student-focused, approachable textbook designed as a complete course companion for all stages and levels of study. The inclusion of summaries, revision questions and problem questions make it highly useful for students approaching subject for the first time students preparing for exams.
Opens with a consideration of the social, economic and historical context of criminal law before examining the principles that form the basis of criminal law in Australia. Case studies of important decisions influencing the development of the law are included and interesting issues are highlighted.
This sixth edition of The Criminal Codes: Commentary and Materials has been substantially revised to increase overall clarity and to ensure a balanced examination of the criminal law in the "Code" States, Queensland and Western Australia. The work has been brought up-to-date in all areas and provides valuable comment on the recent wide-reaching reforms to the law of homicide in Western Australia. Significant developments in both States discussed in this edition include: the abolition of wilful murder and infanticide, and the new definition of murder (WA); the introduction of the new offence of unlawful assault causing death (WA); the abolition of provocation to murder (WA), and whether this excuse still has a part to play (Qld); the reformulation of the excuse of self defence, and the introduction of excessive self defence (WA); the creation of offences for drink spiking (Qld and WA); and current and proposed sentencing considerations (Qld and WA). Fundamental principles of the criminal law are illustrated throughout the book by selected extracts from the Codes and case law, while additional materials foster critical reflection on the law and the need for reform. The Criminal Codes: Commentary and Materials, 6th Edition is essential reading for students studying criminal law in Western Australia and Queensland.
Criminal Law in Queensland and Western Australia is designed to facilitate both continuous review and preparation for examinations. This book provides an understanding of criminal law for Queensland and Western Australia and gives a clear and systematic approach to analysing and answering problem and exam questions. Each chapter commences with a summary of the relevant law and identification of the key issues. Each question is followed by a suggested answer plan, a sample answer and comments on how the answer might be assessed by an examiner. The author also offers advice on common errors to avoid and practical hints and tips on how to achieve higher marks.
Provides a complete overview of the criminal justice process. It analyses the influences that shape criminal justice and examines the institutional and administrative features of its operation in all jurisdictions. Findlay, University of Sydney, Australia.
How do judges sentence? This question is frequently asked but infrequently explored. What factors are taken into account? How do judges see their role? How do they apply the aims and purposes of sentencing? How are factors such as public opinion taken into account? How Judges Sentence explores these questions through interviews with Queensland judges. The judges explain how they come to their decisions when sentencing, how they view judicial discretion, and how they exercise it. The book carefully examines their comments within the legislative and theoretical contexts of sentencing. The analysis yields valuable insights into judicial methodologies, perceptions, and attitudes towards the sentencing process. How Judges Sentence provides a major contribution to debates on sentencing.