This book describes the formal rules and informal practices involved in the development and resolution of a criminal case, from the decision to charge to disposition by trial or plea, and sentencing. Analysis of the work of prosecutors and defense attorneys in a hypothetical case helps students to contexualize criminal procedure doctrine by demonstrating the way in which the attorney applies constitutional and statutory law. The Practice of Federal Criminal Law: Prosecution and Defense can be used in conjunction with criminal procedure courses using traditional casebooks as well as in skills training courses and prosecution and defense clinics.

This is a comprehensive examination of the general principles of federal criminal law. The book provides commentary on specific terms and phrases as well as examples of how each principle may be applied.