"Criminal Justice: Opposing Viewpoints is the leading source for libraries and classrooms in need of current-issue materials. The viewpoints are selected from a wide range of highly respected sources and publications"--Provided by publisher.

1. Does the criminal justice system need reform? -- The federal criminal justice system works well for trying terrorists -- May it please the court -- Drug courts are not a positive reform to the criminal justice system -- Racial disparities in the criminal justice system need to be addressed -- There is no evidence of racial discrimination in the criminal justice system -- 2. What is the state of the incarceration system in the United States? -- Greater incarceration and a change in culture explain the decline in crime -- The benefits of mass incarceration are outweighed by the negative effects -- Restorative justice is a good alternative to incarceration -- Probation and parole are good alternatives to incarceration -- There are high costs to incarceration alternatives -- 3. Should sentencing laws be reformed? -- The death penalty should be abolished -- The death penalty should not be abolished -- Life-without-parole sentences are constitutional, even for juveniles -- Life-without-parole sentences should be eliminated -- Swift and certain punishment works better than severe sentences -- Mandatory minimum sentences are ineffective -- 4. What rights should be a part of the criminal justice system? -- Terrorist suspects should have a right to Miranda warnings -- Terrorist suspects should not have a right to Miranda warnings -- The right to adequate legal defense is not being met for the poor -- Defendants should have the right to choose their own defense attorneys -- Plea bargaining violates the right to a jury trial.