An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

The PI bible from and for the judges, 11 Dec 2008
This work first appeared in 1992, and at that time, Lord Donaldson wrote that there could be no doubt about the practical value of this volume. Since then, the work has become essential for practitioners and now I would not dream of advising on a personal injury matter without referring to the JSB Guidelines first.

The guidelines are always well received, and they have a clear and well received influence on the judiciary. Colin Mackay explains the current need for the work as a record of the levels of awards and settlements which we use as a starting point for our advocacy.

Updates are always difficult but I believe Mackay J and his team have produced the level of consistency needed for the making of awards which served the interests of justice as well as any person can. Lord Justice Waller, in his Foreword, welcomes the work and highlights the comments from the book's readers together with all the different areas where reports are to be found which makes the working party's job so difficult.

This is not, however, a `ready reckoner' but, as Mackay says, it distils the conventional wisdom contained in the reported cases, and supplements it from the collective experience of his working party, presenting the result in a convenient, logical and coherent form.

The work is now widely adopted as the starting point in negotiating levels of payment for general damages in personal injury cases. Contents cover the following: Injuries Involving Paralysis; Head Injuries; Psychiatric Damage; Injuries Affecting the Senses; Injuries to Internal Organs; Orthopaedic Injuries; Facial Injuries; Scarring to Other Parts of the Body; Damage to Hair; Dermatitis and a useful index.

The publishers send copies of these guidelines to all hearing PI cases, and it is an indispensible tool for all legal professionals involved in PI litigation, from lawyers to insurance companies, trades unions and medical defence organisations.

Today, I cannot be without my copy of the JSB guidelines, and I know the clients appreciate the wisdom they give!


General Damages leads the cavalry to the rescue, 22 Mar 2001
This pioneering biography of General Damages - General Custer's deputy at the Battle of the Little Big Horn is to be welcomed. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the accounts of Damage's family background and the synopsis of his distinguished military career. Full marks for trying Mr. Author.

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

The PI bible from and for the judges, 11 Dec 2008
This work first appeared in 1992, and at that time, Lord Donaldson wrote that there could be no doubt about the practical value of this volume. Since then, the work has become essential for practitioners and now I would not dream of advising on a personal injury matter without referring to the JSB Guidelines first.

The guidelines are always well received, and they have a clear and well received influence on the judiciary. Colin Mackay explains the current need for the work as a record of the levels of awards and settlements which we use as a starting point for our advocacy.

Updates are always difficult but I believe Mackay J and his team have produced the level of consistency needed for the making of awards which served the interests of justice as well as any person can. Lord Justice Waller, in his Foreword, welcomes the work and highlights the comments from the book's readers together with all the different areas where reports are to be found which makes the working party's job so difficult.

This is not, however, a `ready reckoner' but, as Mackay says, it distils the conventional wisdom contained in the reported cases, and supplements it from the collective experience of his working party, presenting the result in a convenient, logical and coherent form.

The work is now widely adopted as the starting point in negotiating levels of payment for general damages in personal injury cases. Contents cover the following: Injuries Involving Paralysis; Head Injuries; Psychiatric Damage; Injuries Affecting the Senses; Injuries to Internal Organs; Orthopaedic Injuries; Facial Injuries; Scarring to Other Parts of the Body; Damage to Hair; Dermatitis and a useful index.

The publishers send copies of these guidelines to all hearing PI cases, and it is an indispensible tool for all legal professionals involved in PI litigation, from lawyers to insurance companies, trades unions and medical defence organisations.

Today, I cannot be without my copy of the JSB guidelines, and I know the clients appreciate the wisdom they give!


General Damages leads the cavalry to the rescue, 22 Mar 2001
This pioneering biography of General Damages - General Custer's deputy at the Battle of the Little Big Horn is to be welcomed. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the accounts of Damage's family background and the synopsis of his distinguished military career. Full marks for trying Mr. Author.

A must have book for all law undergraduates and students studing for the BVC., 12 Jun 2007
Adrian has taken a complex subject and made it simple, in particular the changes to hearsay and evidence of bad character brought about by the Criminal Justice Act 2003, also, the implication of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the ECHR. An EXCELLENT read, thankyou, Adrian.

Teresa May McCosker

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

The PI bible from and for the judges, 11 Dec 2008
This work first appeared in 1992, and at that time, Lord Donaldson wrote that there could be no doubt about the practical value of this volume. Since then, the work has become essential for practitioners and now I would not dream of advising on a personal injury matter without referring to the JSB Guidelines first.

The guidelines are always well received, and they have a clear and well received influence on the judiciary. Colin Mackay explains the current need for the work as a record of the levels of awards and settlements which we use as a starting point for our advocacy.

Updates are always difficult but I believe Mackay J and his team have produced the level of consistency needed for the making of awards which served the interests of justice as well as any person can. Lord Justice Waller, in his Foreword, welcomes the work and highlights the comments from the book's readers together with all the different areas where reports are to be found which makes the working party's job so difficult.

This is not, however, a `ready reckoner' but, as Mackay says, it distils the conventional wisdom contained in the reported cases, and supplements it from the collective experience of his working party, presenting the result in a convenient, logical and coherent form.

The work is now widely adopted as the starting point in negotiating levels of payment for general damages in personal injury cases. Contents cover the following: Injuries Involving Paralysis; Head Injuries; Psychiatric Damage; Injuries Affecting the Senses; Injuries to Internal Organs; Orthopaedic Injuries; Facial Injuries; Scarring to Other Parts of the Body; Damage to Hair; Dermatitis and a useful index.

The publishers send copies of these guidelines to all hearing PI cases, and it is an indispensible tool for all legal professionals involved in PI litigation, from lawyers to insurance companies, trades unions and medical defence organisations.

Today, I cannot be without my copy of the JSB guidelines, and I know the clients appreciate the wisdom they give!


General Damages leads the cavalry to the rescue, 22 Mar 2001
This pioneering biography of General Damages - General Custer's deputy at the Battle of the Little Big Horn is to be welcomed. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the accounts of Damage's family background and the synopsis of his distinguished military career. Full marks for trying Mr. Author.

A must have book for all law undergraduates and students studing for the BVC., 12 Jun 2007
Adrian has taken a complex subject and made it simple, in particular the changes to hearsay and evidence of bad character brought about by the Criminal Justice Act 2003, also, the implication of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the ECHR. An EXCELLENT read, thankyou, Adrian.

Teresa May McCosker

Everything!, 28 Nov 2008
This is a great book. Currently studying a forensic science degree with a forensic anthropology section. This book has helped me all through 3 years, it contains the basics of bone anatomy right through to more difficult tasks of sexing, aging, ancestry and stature estimation of remains.
It really does contain everything. Burns has also referenced many important and helpful papers and books to help point you in the right direction for further study.
Its a must have for anyone studying this line of anthropology/ forensics.

Excellent!, 01 Oct 2007
I'm currently studying an MSc degree in Anthropology, and found i needed a good text book which would enable me to learn the basics and then further expand my knowledge. This book is a must for anyone who wishes to learn anthropology, it has amazing pictures and excellent details, from the sexing of an individual bone to how ossification occurs.

Every year in the United Kingdom, a quarter of a million people are summoned to do jury service. Some go reluctantly, some willingly, but all should be aware that they are taking part in a legal tradition that dates back to before Magna Carta.

Trevor Grove, formerly an editor of the Sunday Telegraph, was summoned to serve as a juror in a trial at the Old Bailey involving the kidnap of a Greek shipping magnate and a $3,000,000 ransom. But there were many doubts about whether the victim was really so innocent as he seemed.

The Juryman's Tale is a thrilling first-hand account of what it is like to serve on a jury in a major criminal trial, with all the twists and turns, shock and suspense of a John Grisham novel. But it also develops into a passionate defence of the jury system. Grove's defence is made all the stronger by his willingness to admit the imperfection of this very human institution: "Juries are clumsy, fallible, expensive and slow". But the greatest legal minds have always understood this, and still concluded that the jury is "the lamp that shows that freedom lives" (Lord Devlin); "the sacred bulwark of the nation" (Sir William Blackstone); "a peerless teacher of citizenship" (Alexis de Tocqueville). Grove's caustic and unarguable conclusion is that, at the very least, "Any Prime Minister who refers to The People as often as Tony Blair does ought to approach the jury box on bended knee". --Christopher Hart

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

The PI bible from and for the judges, 11 Dec 2008
This work first appeared in 1992, and at that time, Lord Donaldson wrote that there could be no doubt about the practical value of this volume. Since then, the work has become essential for practitioners and now I would not dream of advising on a personal injury matter without referring to the JSB Guidelines first.

The guidelines are always well received, and they have a clear and well received influence on the judiciary. Colin Mackay explains the current need for the work as a record of the levels of awards and settlements which we use as a starting point for our advocacy.

Updates are always difficult but I believe Mackay J and his team have produced the level of consistency needed for the making of awards which served the interests of justice as well as any person can. Lord Justice Waller, in his Foreword, welcomes the work and highlights the comments from the book's readers together with all the different areas where reports are to be found which makes the working party's job so difficult.

This is not, however, a `ready reckoner' but, as Mackay says, it distils the conventional wisdom contained in the reported cases, and supplements it from the collective experience of his working party, presenting the result in a convenient, logical and coherent form.

The work is now widely adopted as the starting point in negotiating levels of payment for general damages in personal injury cases. Contents cover the following: Injuries Involving Paralysis; Head Injuries; Psychiatric Damage; Injuries Affecting the Senses; Injuries to Internal Organs; Orthopaedic Injuries; Facial Injuries; Scarring to Other Parts of the Body; Damage to Hair; Dermatitis and a useful index.

The publishers send copies of these guidelines to all hearing PI cases, and it is an indispensible tool for all legal professionals involved in PI litigation, from lawyers to insurance companies, trades unions and medical defence organisations.

Today, I cannot be without my copy of the JSB guidelines, and I know the clients appreciate the wisdom they give!


General Damages leads the cavalry to the rescue, 22 Mar 2001
This pioneering biography of General Damages - General Custer's deputy at the Battle of the Little Big Horn is to be welcomed. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the accounts of Damage's family background and the synopsis of his distinguished military career. Full marks for trying Mr. Author.

A must have book for all law undergraduates and students studing for the BVC., 12 Jun 2007
Adrian has taken a complex subject and made it simple, in particular the changes to hearsay and evidence of bad character brought about by the Criminal Justice Act 2003, also, the implication of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the ECHR. An EXCELLENT read, thankyou, Adrian.

Teresa May McCosker

Everything!, 28 Nov 2008
This is a great book. Currently studying a forensic science degree with a forensic anthropology section. This book has helped me all through 3 years, it contains the basics of bone anatomy right through to more difficult tasks of sexing, aging, ancestry and stature estimation of remains.
It really does contain everything. Burns has also referenced many important and helpful papers and books to help point you in the right direction for further study.
Its a must have for anyone studying this line of anthropology/ forensics.

Excellent!, 01 Oct 2007
I'm currently studying an MSc degree in Anthropology, and found i needed a good text book which would enable me to learn the basics and then further expand my knowledge. This book is a must for anyone who wishes to learn anthropology, it has amazing pictures and excellent details, from the sexing of an individual bone to how ossification occurs.



fantastic book i couldn't put it down!, 10 Sep 2006
A really interesting account of the trial as described by the other reviewers, the name dropping I found unnecesary - being at Lord Archers party barely impressed me! Very funny in parts too when describing the defendants English - " Humphrey Baize" sprung to mind.

A good read.

Indispensable guide, 12 Mar 2001
This book will strike a chord with anyone who has ever done jury service, as well as providing an indispensable guide for anyone who is about to do so. It is also extremely entertaining, with a surprising number of laughs along the way.

A STAGGERINGLY ACCURATE ACCOUNT OF JURY SERVICE, 11 Mar 2000
Like Trevor Grove I have also just finished a six week stint as a juror at the Old Bailey. This book is exactly right. Reading it was just like being there again. Although 2-3 years have passed since his term, everything is exactly the same. I recognise most of the court staff who are still there today. The quote from his fellow jury member who found it the most interesting experience of her life was a sentiment I heard many times over the six weeks there. I also would drop everything tomorrow to do it again. My jury even finished off in the same bar at the end;the post-mortem conducted there was very important and cathartic. Well done Mr Grove.

A very interesting, thought-provoking book, 11 Feb 2000
Trevor Grove has written a fascinating book about serving on a jury for a long-running trial, even though he had to submit to the legal ruling that the deliberations in the jury room must never be divulged. You might think this would remove the whole point of the book, but the loss has been well balanced by the story of the trial itself, the verdict and subsequent events, and Mr Grove's wide-ranging collection of the opinions of informed bystanders. He makes useful comments about the way a jury should proceed, and anyone called to do jury service should definitely read this book.

Interesting and informative, 15 Jun 1999
Trevor Grove recounts his real life experience as a juror in a kidnapping trial. He alternates between essays on the jury system and the story of the trial itself. Although by law he is not allowed to give information on the process whereby the jury reached its verdict, he does come up with some interesting insights into the way a jury works. The book is very readable and as a non-professional in the courtroom, his version of the trial gave a different perspective on the law in action.

An invaluable resource, 29 Jan 2008
I have been using this book for the three years of my degree, originally buying the first edition then the second when it was published. This is an invaluable resource for 1st year Forensic Science students and the comprehensive introductory material provides good reading for any budding CSI. Throughout my degree I have returned to this book, either as a refresher for learned material or as an introduction to further reading. The content is accessible and I have found that reading this material prior to further reading gives you the background knowledge necessary to understand more detailed specific subject texts.

The second edition does contain useful new material, including birefringence of fibres and archaeology. There is a tremendous amount of good accessible information in here, I can highly recommend it.


Excellent, 20 Sep 2006
Andrew Jackson is one of the lecturers on my Forensic Science course at Uni, so it was no surprise to find this book was listed as a core text. I used it practically every day in my first year and now I'm starting my second year I imagine I'll still refer to it for useful information.

I've found it very helpful, interesting and not too complicated (while also not being patronising like some other books).

I would greatly recommend it to anyone who is fascinated by the subject, or for those who have a genuine interest in pursuing it beyond the boundaries of "just for pleasure".

Students, 19 Oct 2005
i am a currently a student doing a forensic science degree and i find this book very helpful! as it has all releivant information and is easy to read over all it is a very good book!.

Great book!, 26 Jun 2005
I bought this book as an aid for my Forensic Science degree course and it has been extremely helpful. It contains useful and informative sections on items such as DNA, footwear impressions analysis, explosives, fibres, court procedures etc. The illustrations are also good. I found the book easy to digest and understand, definately recommended, regardless of whether you are studying this as a subject or just want to know more about forensic science.

Forensic Science Textbook Review, 10 Aug 2004
This book provides information on a wide range of Forensic techniques and enables the reader to gain an understanding of the many areas associated with Forensic Science. The use of photographs, diagrams and charts clearly displays the most important facts and makes the more difficult topics more easily comprehensible. I recommend this text for anyone interested in this subject area.

Very clear and concise reference for wannabe cops, 10 Jan 2000
As a prospective police officer myself, I was looking for a set of books to help my understanding of law, and Blackstone's have done it here

LOVELY TO HAVE AROUND, 30 Sep 2008
This is a wonderful book. It has a wonderful 'feel' to it; not only academically (it is very learned and authoritative, OF COURSE), but physically, too. Rather superficial of me to think so, no doubt, but how a book feels in my hand does matter. Pages interesting size and nice quality - all very pleasant to use - the whole thing has air of coherence about it.
Thank you, Professor Ormerod (and OUP too).

Essential Reading, 12 Sep 2008
As a recent law graduate I can safely say that this is without doubt the most comprehensive text on criminal law around. It presents a detailed analysis of all areas of the law in an interesting and thorough way. What really sets it apart from the other textbooks in the field is the depth of analysis, the way it gives the reader an understanding of the topic and challenges them to develop their own opinion.

It is certainly essential reading for anybody studying law, as the most up-to-date information is presented in a clear and easy to read way, without any 'dumbing down' of the content.

Highly recommended!

Why I recommend this book!!!, 10 Aug 2008
I bought this 12th edition as an update to the previous edition. In going through the 11th edition I found that it was great to work from as it was not only clear and precise but also easy to read! I feel that the 11th edition has been updated to an exceptional standard in this latest book, with new material on the corporate manslaughter offence, hundreds of new cases and most importantly a chapter on the new Fraud Act (an area for which he is renowned following on from his other books on that subject).

I must admit I don't tend to write reviews of books, but this really had to be the exception as I couldn't bypass an opportunity to tell others just what standard David Ormerod has reached in this book!

making criminal law logical, 20 Sep 2007
I provided my undergraduate law students with references to three established texts on each topic in Criminal Law and the vast majority told me that Smith and Hogan on Criminal Law by David Ormerod was their preferred text.

It clearly presents what the law is, where it has come from, how leading legal minds criticise it and therefore how it might be better developed in the future. The book guides the reader logically through the elements of offences and defences, allowing the novice to navigate its content with ease while developing a critical mindset.

What places it ahead of other comparable texts is that this logical construction does not signify a sacrific in depth of content. The book is renowned as the authority on criminal law for practitioners and students alike, and rightly retains this status through continuing to provide a solid basis in criminal law for the new student and a reliable and easily navigated reference base for the post grad or seasoned practitioner.

Average, 12 Apr 2007
Compared to Herring's text book on Criminal Law this isn't that good, I'm in my second year and compared to the afore mentioned I've barely used it. Some good criminal law texts for taking to class (much smaller books) are key cases, key facts and law express.

The PI bible from and for the judges, 11 Dec 2008
This work first appeared in 1992, and at that time, Lord Donaldson wrote that there could be no doubt about the practical value of this volume. Since then, the work has become essential for practitioners and now I would not dream of advising on a personal injury matter without referring to the JSB Guidelines first.

The guidelines are always well received, and they have a clear and well received influence on the judiciary. Colin Mackay explains the current need for the work as a record of the levels of awards and settlements which we use as a starting point for our advocacy.

Updates are always difficult but I believe Mackay J and his team have produced the level of consistency needed for the making of awards which served the interests of justice as well as any person can. Lord Justice Waller, in his Foreword, welcomes the work and highlights the comments from the book's readers together with all the different areas where reports are to be found which makes the working party's job so difficult.

This is not, however, a `ready reckoner' but, as Mackay says, it distils the conventional wisdom contained in the reported cases, and supplements it from the collective experience of his working party, presenting the result in a convenient, logical and coherent form.

The work is now widely adopted as the starting point in negotiating levels of payment for general damages in personal injury cases. Contents cover the following: Injuries Involving Paralysis; Head Injuries; Psychiatric Damage; Injuries Affecting the Senses; Injuries to Internal Organs; Orthopaedic Injuries; Facial Injuries; Scarring to Other Parts of the Body; Damage to Hair; Dermatitis and a useful index.

The publishers send copies of these guidelines to all hearing PI cases, and it is an indispensible tool for all legal professionals involved in PI litigation, from lawyers to insurance companies, trades unions and medical defence organisations.

Today, I cannot be without my copy of the JSB guidelines, and I know the clients appreciate the wisdom they give!


General Damages leads the cavalry to the rescue, 22 Mar 2001
This pioneering biography of General Damages - General Custer's deputy at the Battle of the Little Big Horn is to be welcomed. This reviewer particularly enjoyed the accounts of Damage's family background and the synopsis of his distinguished military career. Full marks for trying Mr. Author.

A must have book for all law undergraduates and students studing for the BVC., 12 Jun 2007
Adrian has taken a complex subject and made it simple, in particular the changes to hearsay and evidence of bad character brought about by the Criminal Justice Act 2003, also, the implication of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the ECHR. An EXCELLENT read, thankyou, Adrian.

Teresa May McCosker

Everything!, 28 Nov 2008
This is a great book. Currently studying a forensic science degree with a forensic anthropology section. This book has helped me all through 3 years, it contains the basics of bone anatomy right through to more difficult tasks of sexing, aging, ancestry and stature estimation of remains.
It really does contain everything. Burns has also referenced many important and helpful papers and books to help point you in the right direction for further study.
Its a must have for anyone studying this line of anthropology/ forensics.

Excellent!, 01 Oct 2007
I'm currently studying an MSc degree in Anthropology, and found i needed a good text book which would enable me to learn the basics and then further expand my knowledge. This book is a must for anyone who wishes to learn anthropology, it has amazing pictures and excellent details, from the sexing of an individual bone to how ossification occurs.



fantastic book i couldn't put it down!, 10 Sep 2006
A really interesting account of the trial as described by the other reviewers, the name dropping I found unnecesary - being at Lord Archers party barely impressed me! Very funny in parts too when describing the defendants English - " Humphrey Baize" sprung to mind.

A good read.

Indispensable guide, 12 Mar 2001
This book will strike a chord with anyone who has ever done jury service, as well as providing an indispensable guide for anyone who is about to do so. It is also extremely entertaining, with a surprising number of laughs along the way.

A STAGGERINGLY ACCURATE ACCOUNT OF JURY SERVICE, 11 Mar 2000
Like Trevor Grove I have also just finished a six week stint as a juror at the Old Bailey. This book is exactly right. Reading it was just like being there again. Although 2-3 years have passed since his term, everything is exactly the same. I recognise most of the court staff who are still there today. The quote from his fellow jury member who found it the most interesting experience of her life was a sentiment I heard many times over the six weeks there. I also would drop everything tomorrow to do it again. My jury even finished off in the same bar at the end;the post-mortem conducted there was very important and cathartic. Well done Mr Grove.

A very interesting, thought-provoking book, 11 Feb 2000
Trevor Grove has written a fascinating book about serving on a jury for a long-running trial, even though he had to submit to the legal ruling that the deliberations in the jury room must never be divulged. You might think this would remove the whole point of the book, but the loss has been well balanced by the story of the trial itself, the verdict and subsequent events, and Mr Grove's wide-ranging collection of the opinions of informed bystanders. He makes useful comments about the way a jury should proceed, and anyone called to do jury service should definitely read this book.

Interesting and informative, 15 Jun 1999
Trevor Grove recounts his real life experience as a juror in a kidnapping trial. He alternates between essays on the jury system and the story of the trial itself. Although by law he is not allowed to give information on the process whereby the jury reached its verdict, he does come up with some interesting insights into the way a jury works. The book is very readable and as a non-professional in the courtroom, his version of the trial gave a different perspective on the law in action.

excellent & informative, 17 Oct 2006
This book provided me with a sound knowledge base of european law. It is well written and easy to digest, an absolute must for anyone new to the subject.