An Introduction to Lone Star JusticeEvery Texan knows that the Lone Star State is one of a kind with stories and facts uniquely its own. From Judge Roy Bean to Karla Faye Tucker, Texas criminal justice remains a source of legendary folklore and controversial national headlines.
Until now, anyone interested in understanding how the Texas criminal justice system is organized and operated has had to consult a number of sources which only address a small aspect or segment of the system. Lone Star Justice represents the first comprehensive overview of the historical development and contemporary organization of the components that comprise the criminal justice system in Texas.
Written for students, educators, legal and criminal justice professionals, proud Texans, and pedants extraordinaire, Lone Star Justice is a book designed to meet the informational needs of the widest array of readers. Drawn from a broad range of historical, political and statutory sources, some of which are obscure, out of print, and difficult to locate, Dr. David Horton and I have gone to great lengths to bring together for the very first time a host of factual and historical information that can be found in no other book (such as, a chronology of vigilantism and lynching in Texas). Additionally, Lone Star Justice contains an extensive glossary of general and Texas specific terms, as well as a description of important and valuable Internet sites on the World Wide Web.
With 384 pages and 52 photos, Lone Star Justice's chapters use facts and interesting anecdotes to explain the following:
1. Crime and the Administration of Justice in Texas; 2. The Foundations of Texas Law; 3. Law Enforcement in Texas; 4. The Texas Court System; 5. Texas Criminal Procedure: From Arrest to Appeal; 6. The History of the Texas Prison System; 7. The Texas Prison System Today; 8. Parole and Probation in Texas; 9. The Administration of Juvenile Justice in Texas.
Throughout every chapter, subject matter is presented in a straightforward, "user friendly" fashion. Photographs, diagrams, and organizational charts are included to illustrate key concepts and events in an informative, yet entertaining manner. We believe that such features make Lone Star Justice a unique, one of a kind book that fills a very important niche.
From its inception, we envisioned Lone Star Justice providing a solid foundation for further discussions about criminal justice in Texas. We look forward to building relationships with educators, students, and other readers interested in Texas criminal justice. To achieve these goals, we welcome your questions, comments, and suggestions.