Includes bibliographical references and index.

An introduction to law and society -- Theories of law and justice -- The structure and function of courts, legislatures, and administrative agencies -- The legal profession -- Access to justice and legal ethics -- Dispute resolution -- Criminal courts -- Juries -- Law and social control -- The impact of law on society -- Law and racial and ethnic inequality -- Privacy and surveillance.

"Law and Society, Fourth Edition, offers a contemporary overview of the structure and function of legal institutions, along with a lively discussion of both criminal and civil law and their impact on society. Unlike other books on law and society, Matthew Lippman takes an interdisciplinary approach that highlights the relevance of the law throughout our society. Distinctive coverage of diversity, inequality, civil liberties, and globalism is intertwined through an organized theme in a strong narrative. The highly anticipated Fourth Edition of this practical and invigorating text introduces students to both the influence of law on society and the influence of society on the law. Discussions of the pressing issues facing today's society include key topics such as the law and inequality, international human rights, privacy and surveillance, and law and social control"-- Provided by publisher.