The book "Principles of Federal Criminal Law" by Stephen Odgers SC is a comprehensive legal text that provides an in-depth examination of the general principles of federal criminal law in Australia. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Comprehensive Examination: The book offers a thorough analysis of the principles of federal criminal law, making it accessible to both criminal lawyers and commercial lawyers dealing with criminal penalties for commercial crimes.
2. Commentary on Specific Terms: Stephen Odgers provides detailed commentary on specific terms and phrases used in Chapter 2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code, along with examples of how each principle may be applied.
3. Practical Application: The book guides readers through the principles, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle a widening range of criminal offenses and to navigate the complexities of federal criminal law.

Plot Summary

The book is structured around the principles outlined in Chapter 2 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code. It delves into the significance of the Code and the increasing number of offenses under it. The text includes:

• Commentary on Key Concepts: Detailed explanations of critical terms and phrases used in federal criminal law.
• Case Studies and Examples: Practical examples illustrating the application of each principle, making the concepts more understandable and applicable in real-world scenarios.
• Relevance to Practitioners: The book is designed to be useful for both criminal lawyers and commercial lawyers, addressing the need for practitioners to understand and navigate the complexities of federal criminal law.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews are not provided in the search results, the book's reputation as a comprehensive and authoritative text in the field of federal criminal law is evident. Stephen Odgers SC is a prominent figure in Australian criminal law, and his work is widely respected within the legal community.

Editions

The book has been published in multiple editions, with the fourth edition being the most recent. The fourth edition was released in 2019 and includes updates and revisions to reflect changes in the legal landscape.

Author Background

Stephen Odgers SC is a prominent NSW barrister specializing in criminal law and a legal academic. He is also an author for Thomson Reuters, contributing to online and looseleaf publications in the field of criminal law.

In summary, "Principles of Federal Criminal Law" by Stephen Odgers SC is a seminal work in the field of Australian federal criminal law, offering a comprehensive and practical guide to the principles and applications of federal criminal law. Its detailed commentary, case studies, and practical examples make it an essential resource for both criminal lawyers and commercial lawyers dealing with criminal penalties.