This work serves as the definitive reference for criminal law practitioners, addressing the core question of how to apply complex statutes, case law, and procedural rules within the English criminal justice system. Led by Professor David Ormerod and David Perry QC, the text synthesizes contributions from a panel of legal experts to provide a reliable framework for courtroom practice. The authors utilize a combination of legislative analysis, judicial precedent, and procedural updates to ensure practitioners remain compliant with current legal standards. This edition specifically integrates the necessary adjustments required by the 2020 Criminal Procedure Rules and the evolving legal landscape during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legal professionals and scholars recognize this text as a foundational resource for navigating the complexities of criminal practice in England and Wales. Readers frequently note the high density of the prose and the necessity of the accompanying digital updates for maintaining accuracy in a rapidly changing legal environment.