What does the Hornbook cover?

Actus reus, mens rea, defenses, offenses, and general principles of criminal law.

Wayne LaFave and Jens Ohlin, respected criminal law scholars.

Law students, professors, and practitioners seeking a comprehensive reference.

It uses case law to illustrate doctrines but focuses on commentary and principles.

Why is it widely used?

It is considered the authoritative hornbook on criminal law.

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Wayne LaFave, Jens Ohlin

Criminal Law (Hornbook)

The essential guide to American criminal law in one volume.

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What Will You Learn?

Criminal law defines crime and justice – Criminal Law (Hornbook) provides comprehensive coverage of offenses, defenses, and punishment principles.

This criminal law summary and key takeaways explain:

Elements of Crime – Actus reus, mens rea, and causation
Offenses – Homicide, theft, inchoate crimes, and more
Defenses – Self-defense, insanity, and necessity
Punishment – Sentencing theories and proportionality

2025 application: AI surveillance, cybercrime, and digital evidence reshape criminal law enforcement.

Win with Click.Apply.Grow™: Track crime definitions, update compliance training, prepare defenses, and adapt to tech-based evidence.

Know crime. Uphold justice.

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About the Author

Wayne LaFave and Jens Ohlin are leading criminal law scholars whose casebooks and treatises have defined the study of criminal law and procedure.

LaFave’s *Substantive Criminal Law* and Ohlin’s works on international and domestic criminal law remain foundational texts in legal education.

What sets them apart: They combine doctrinal depth with real-world cases, preparing students and lawyers to navigate criminal justice with precision.

Law students and practitioners using their work report greater legal mastery, sharper advocacy, and deeper contextual knowledge.

The scholars who set the standard for criminal law education.

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