Introduction to Law has always maintained its primary objective of introducing students from a variety of courses of study to relevant legal principles and terminology. Each edition, including this new fifth edition, incorporates many of the newest cases and contemporary topics in the law. This is integrated with long standing legal principles that create the foundation of the American legal system. The book begins by providing a detailed look at how and why the U.S. system of government is organized in its present state. This is followed by chapters that address each of the primary substantive areas of law. Chapters include applications of the legal principles with discussion points, realistic assignments, and ethical considerations specific to the subject matter of the particular chapter. In addition to illustrations, there are actual judicial opinions that have been edited to a level easy to read and understand by the beginning student. Because of the impact of the legal system on virtually every aspect of American life and business, Introduction to Law is a means to expose all students to the way their particular profession may be affected by the legal system.