First published in 1976, this book examines the practical workings of the English criminal court system, focusing on the defendant's experiences of the system and the decisions he takes as he passes through it. Indeed, the defendant in a criminal case is in a unique position to experience the whole criminal process, from the first approaches of the investigating policeman to conviction, sentence and possible appeal.

Defendants in the Criminal Process is based upon the close observation of criminal cases and on interviews with defendants. The authors raise several issues and questions to be addressed by those involved in the administration of justice, whether as court administrators, judges, magistrates or lawyers. They also discuss issues of special importance for academics and others concerned with the explanation of the court process.