Smith, Hogan, & Ormerod's Essentials of Criminal Law provides an ideal gateway into the dynamic world of criminal law. Focused, expert coverage, a hallmark of the Smith, Hogan, and Ormerod books, is supported by a wealth of student-friendly learning features that enhance learning in this ideal introduction for first time students.

Dr John Child and Professor David Ormerod QC expertly guides the new undergraduate reader through the subject, addressing all the key topics on the LLB. Complex issues are demystified and explained, offering a clear understanding of all offences and principles.

Particular attention is paid to student assessment, with end of chapter sections offering advice on how to approach essay and problem questions. Short learning and assessment tips are provided throughout the chapters.

Online Resources

A range of online resources are provided to further a student's understanding, including video tutorials from the authors and students, examination questions with answer guidance from the authors, multiple choice questions, chapter summaries, and further reading.

John Child, Senior Lecturer in Criminal Law, Birmingham Law School,David Ormerod QC, Law Commissioner for England and Wales, Professor of Criminal Justice at University College London

Dr John Child is a Senior Lecturer in Criminal Law at the University of Birmingham and a Co-Director of the Criminal Law Reform Now Network. Prior to this, he lectured at the University of Sussex and Oxford Brookes Law School. He also worked as a research assistant on the Criminal Law Team at the Law Commission for England and Wales.



Professor David Ormerod QC is a Law Commissioner for England and Wales, Professor of Criminal Justice at University College London, and Deputy High Court Judge. He is also a Door Tenant at Red Lion Chambers and a Bencher of Middle Temple.