General Principles of Criminal Law by KNC Pillai, Renjith Thomas and Devi Jagani – 3rd Edition 2024

Criminal Law: General Principles is a well acclaimed book which discusses the foundational principles of substantive criminal law through a pedagogical approach that marries the case law method with the Socratic method of learning. It is the first work of its kind that successfully dispels the age-old conviction of confining this area of study within the four walls of the statutory regime. In this third edition, the readers will find a remarkable blend of theory, case law, statutes and other scholastic material, which impels them to approach the learning of criminal law through a critical lens.

The revising authors have restructured and revamped the entire book by providing a detailed introduction to each topic and by creating a fusion of theory and legal interpretation that spans across various legal jurisdictions. At the end of each case, fundamental questions of law are raised with a view to enrich classroom discussion. To help students prepare case notes, the text of judgments has been condensed, edited and summarised; some explanatory notes and suggested readings are added alongside, where deemed necessary.

This book inevitably aims to equip the learner with the aptitude and skills required for engaging in independent reading, interpretation and evaluation of the criminal laws ability to solve real-life problems in a just manner.

This landmark work is indispensable for students of LLB, LLM and for anyone interested in teaching or learning the fundamental principles of criminal law from a critical perspective.

Reviews

The approach adopted by the author will definitely help the students to develop a legal mind – references given at the end of each case enable them to learn searching materials.

– The Academy Law Review

The author has taken all care to include each component required for learning successfully advocacy in the criminal law. The pioneering attempt will meet to the requirement of law teacher and students particularly teaching criminal law.

– Review Projector

Table of Cases
Introduction

1. Introduction to Criminal Law
2. Constitutional Rights for the Protection of the Accused
3. Punishment and Sentencing
4. Constituent Elements of an Offence
5. Parties to an Offence
6. Inchoate Offences: Attempt, Abetment and Conspiracy
7. Defences to Criminal Charges Based on Justifications
8. Defences to Criminal Charges Based on Excuses
9. Homicide
10. Rape and Other Sexual Offences
11. Offences Against Property and Relating to Documents
12. Offences Relating to Marriage
13. Offences Affecting Public Order and Morals