Written by one of the nation's most astute observers of the court, this classic text examines the theory, practice, and people behind the judicial process in the United States, England, and France. It illuminates the judiciary's political, legal, and governmental roles and closely examines the much debated, but little understood line between "judicial activism" and "judicial restraint." Completely updated throughout, this seventh edition examines all important developments and structural changes in the three nation's judicial systems through the end of 1996.