Textbook on Criminal Law

Textbook on Criminal Law

Publisher
Oxford University Press
Published
2013
Pages
—
ISBN-13
9780199669295
Format
print
Language
English
Book Summary
M. J. Allen's Textbook on Criminal Law is a comprehensive, academically rigorous guide to English criminal law. It covers core offences, defences, and general principles with clarity and depth. Ideal for law undergraduates and GDL students, this edition provides up-to-date case law and critical analysis to support exam success and deeper understanding of the criminal justice system.
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About Textbook on Criminal Law

Textbook on Criminal Law by M. J. Allen is a well-established, authoritative resource for students of English criminal law. It offers a detailed exploration of the general principles of criminal liability, including actus reus, mens rea, and the various defences, before examining specific offences such as homicide, non-fatal offences, sexual offences, theft, and fraud. The book balances clear exposition of legal rules with critical analysis and contextual discussion, drawing on a wide range of case law and academic commentary. This edition has been updated to reflect recent legislative and judicial developments, making it an essential companion for law undergraduates, GDL students, and anyone seeking a thorough grounding in criminal law. Its structured approach and thought-provoking questions help readers develop the analytical skills needed for assessments and a deeper appreciation of the subject.

Who should read Textbook on Criminal Law?

This book is essential for law undergraduates and Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) students taking compulsory criminal law modules. It is also valuable for students on related courses, such as criminology or criminal justice, who need a solid legal foundation. Additionally, it serves as a useful reference for practitioners seeking a clear, up-to-date overview of core criminal law principles, and for anyone with a serious interest in understanding the complexities of English criminal law.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive coverage of core criminal law topics and principles
  • ✓ Clear and engaging writing style suitable for students
  • ✓ Up-to-date with recent case law and legislative changes
  • ✓ Includes critical analysis and contextual discussion to deepen understanding
  • ✓ Well-structured with helpful features like summaries and self-test questions
Cons
  • ✗ May be too detailed for readers seeking a quick introduction
  • ✗ Focuses primarily on English law, limiting relevance for other jurisdictions
  • ✗ Some readers may find the density of case law overwhelming
  • ✗ Lacks extensive online resources compared to some competitors
  • ✗ Assumes a basic familiarity with legal concepts, which may challenge absolute beginners
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for the latest syllabus?
Yes, this edition is updated to reflect recent developments in criminal law, making it suitable for current undergraduate and GDL courses.
Does it include case law and statutes?
Yes, the book extensively references case law and statutory provisions, with critical discussion of key decisions and legislation.
Is it useful for exam preparation?
Absolutely. The book includes summaries, self-test questions, and critical analysis to help students consolidate learning and prepare for assessments.
Is this the most recent edition?
This is the 2013 edition (ISBN 9780199669295). Students should check whether a newer edition is recommended for their course.
Does it cover both general principles and specific offences?
Yes, it provides thorough coverage of general principles like actus reus and mens rea, as well as specific offences such as homicide, theft, and sexual offences.

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