Subject
Criminal justice, Administration of -- United States Books
Best books
Arthur Cheney Train
Courts and Criminals
"Courts and Criminals" by Arthur Cheney Train is a collection of essays written between the years 1905-1910 that explores the complexities of the American legal system, particularly concerning criminal law and the rights of individuals. The book delves into the practical application of laws and the often conflicting responsibilities of the police and judiciary, revealing the intricate balance between maintaining public safety and preserving individual liberties in a society that prides itself on its just legal framework. The opening of the work introduces a case in New York involving a young man named Duffy, who was subjected to police procedures without lawful cause, inciting a debate about the presumption of innocence and the rights of citizens. Train discusses the implications of such abuses, highlighting a pattern of "mugging" individuals who have not been convicted, and critiques the hypocrisy within the legal system that allows such practices to persist under the guise of necessity. He argues that while laws are intended to protect the citizenry, they are implemented by fallible individuals, leading to inconsistencies and ethical dilemmas in law enforcement. Overall, the beginning of "Courts and Criminals" sets the stage for an incisive examination of the failings of the criminal justice system and the fundamental rights that underpin American democracy.
Arthur Cheney Train
The Prisoner at the Bar: Sidelights on the Administration of Criminal Justice
"The Prisoner at the Bar: Sidelights on the Administration of Criminal Justice" by Arthur Train is a nonfiction account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide a detailed and engaging exploration of the criminal justice system, highlighting the processes from arrest to conviction and examining the perspectives of the various participants, including the police, lawyers, and the accused. At the start of this work, Train introduces the complexities surrounding the concept of crime, emphasizing that public perception is often shaped by sensational media coverage rather than an understanding of the legal processes involved. He argues that many commonly held beliefs about crime and criminals are oversimplified or erroneous, and he seeks to provide clarity on the administration of criminal justice. The opening discusses the definition of a crime and highlights the intricacies of legal terminology, illustrating differences between various types of crimes and their implications. Train sets the stage for a comprehensive discussion on how individuals can be categorized as criminals and the societal implications of such classifications.
Recently surfaced classics