Through the use of legislation, selected cases and materials enhanced with commentary from the author himself, Understanding Criminal Law has been written to give the reader a clear explanation of the fundamental principles of criminal law and the criminal justice system. The liberal use of symbols, diagrams and charts is designed to give a clearer understanding of this particular area of law, and the book, through these same tools, aims to stimulate reflection and discussion on the various issues surrounding this fascinating subject.
S Chandra Mohan has drawn on his vast experience as a legal officer, judge and teacher of the law to produce this fascinating work. For years he has taught students to appreciate the principles of criminal law and procedure by telling them that the law in this intriguing area is more than what is in the law books – it is about knowing first what is around them that make for a better understanding of what the criminal justice system really is. Many legal scholars, lawyers and judges on both sides of the causeway owe their enduring interest in criminal law and procedure to his unique methods of dispensing knowledge of the law and procedure, an enlightening experience which users of this book will no doubt enjoy partaking in.
Part I – Introduction to Criminal Law
Chapter 1 What is a Crime?
Chapter 2 Aims of Punishment
Chapter 3 The Singapore Criminal Process
Part II – Anatomy of a Crime
Chapter 4 Actus Reus
Chapter 5 Mens Rea
Chapter 6 Strict Liability
Chapter 7 Challenges to establishing a crime
Part III – Common Offences
Chapter 8 Property Offences
Chapter 9 Offences Against the Person
Chapter 10 Sexual Offences
Chapter 11 Culpable Homicide
Part IV – Accessorial and Joint Liability
Chapter 12 Accessorial Liability
Chapter 13 Joint Liability
Part V – Defences
Chapter 14 General Defences
Chapter 15 Special Defences