The general principles of criminal law are also covered, including the elements of an offence (chapters 1 to 3) general defences (chapters 13 and 14) and principles of liability, including inchoate and accessorial liability (chapters 4, 15, and 16). This book focuses on the criminal offences commonly covered on criminal law modules, including murder and manslaughter (chapters 5 and 6) non-fatal offences against the person and sexual offences (chapters 7 and 8) property offences such as theft, fraud, and burglary (chapters 9 to 11) and drugs offences (chapter 12). The scope of criminal law is vast, encompassing an enormous range of offences. Indeed, many people are able to claim experience from all three perspectives. The vast majority of people have, at some stage in their lives, been a victim of a crime, witnessed a criminal offence, or committed one (quite possibly without being caught and prosecuted). Have you ever exceeded the speed limit whilst driving? Used your mobile phone while waiting in a traffic jam? Jumped a red light? Eaten loose cherries or grapes whilst shopping in a supermarket and before paying for them? Noticed that you’ve been given too much change in a shop or been overpaid by your employers, but said nothing? ‘Borrowed’ a friend’s CD without returning it? Been in possession of cannabis? Drawn graffiti on property belonging to another person? Given somebody an unwanted kiss? Touched somebody when they did not want you to? Each of these might amount to a criminal offence and carry a sanction. Consider for a moment whether you have ever committed a criminal offence. Criminal law is a subject which affects us all.

Without a shadow of a doubt tort