California¿s Criminal Justice System provides a state-specific look at the unique features of the criminal justice system in California. This book shares the history, purpose, structure and procedures of California¿s criminal justice system. It begins with conversations about the state of crime in California, the state constitution and the practices of legislative actions and direct democracy in creating laws for the state. The book includes discussions of criminal justice agencies and institutions such as policing, corrections and the juvenile justice system. The authors also highlight some of the current criminal justice controversies within the state, including capital punishment, gangs and victims rights. This text is appropriate for undergraduate students in introductory courses on criminal justice, law and government.