CCJ 310 American Courts

Comprehensive survey of the role and function of courts in the United States. Emphasis placed on the operations of trial-level courts hearing criminal cases. Explores the roles and duties of courtroom participants, structure of the judiciary, relationship between the formal rule of law and daily activities of courts, decision-making, and perspectives from which to view the courts. Attention also to appellate courts, juvenile courts, court reform, and issues of gender, race, and ethnicity.