A unique handbook comparing defendant rights in legal traditions around the world in light of fast-changing developments in U.S. law since September 11, 2001, and the USA PATRIOT Act.

Written for the general reader, this book examines the scope of the legal rights granted by the U.S. Constitution to those accused of a crime. Defendant Rights examines the history of the Anglo-American legal tradition and compares and contrasts this with the major international systems of the world.

Of special significance are the book's sections on the development of the British Dooms Law books under the Anglo-Saxon kings, and the Magna Carta's impact on American legal thought. Especially important in today's political climate is the coverage of Islam's sacred text, the Koran, and the role of the Islamic Kadi.