Congressional Quarterly's desk reference on American courts

the long version

"Whether you are a citizen inquiring about jury duty or a student needing to grasp the intricacies of a criminal trial, Congressional Quarterly's Desk Reference on American Courts provides quick and concise answers to your questions. This essential reference tool answers more than 500 frequently asked questions and clarifies the complex subject of the U.S. court system. The topics cover all aspects of how the court system works, including court institutions, judges and other legal personnel, sources and types of law, judicial processes and procedures, important cases, and interesting firsts. The question-and-answer format, descriptive table of contents, numerous cross-references, and detailed index ensure that you will find the right fact quickly. A bibliography guides further research."--Jacket.