Foreward

It is hoped that this symposium will be stimulating and provocative. In devoting an entire issue to criminal law, emphasis is placed on a somewhat neglected field. Although it may be true that "this interest in criminal law is rooted in the traditions of the American bar," the average practitioner gives insufficient attention and thought to a sound administration of criminal justice. It is most important that the public and especially lawyers consider the social and legal problems involved so that there is an approximation to justice in criminal law.

For there is no area of law which is more important to society and to the individual than that which we call criminal law. Human liberty is at stake, the security of society hangs in the balance. Moreover, to a great extent the public evaluates and judges law and lawyers by the rules and procedures which prevail in our criminal courts. Because of this responsibility and self-interest, lawyers should ponder some of the problems raised and perhaps afford leadership in minimizing the lag between science and criminal law.