This work serves as a comprehensive, authoritative reference guide designed to navigate the complexities of criminal law and procedure within the English legal system. Led by Professor David Ormerod QC and The Right Honourable Lord Justice Hooper, the text synthesizes vast amounts of legislation, judicial case law, and Practice Directions into a functional framework for legal practitioners. It aims to provide reliable, up-to-date guidance for courtroom application, ensuring that legal professionals remain informed of the latest statutory and procedural developments.

Legal professionals and scholars frequently identify this text as a foundational resource for criminal litigation in England and Wales. Experts highlight the clinical precision of the analysis and the utility of the provided updates for maintaining currency in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.