National Security Law in the News A Guide for Journalists, Scholars, and Policymakers

Much in America changed on September 11, 2001. One of those changes was the language of discourse in our public dialog about war and terrorism. But few realize that a robust and detailed body of law and policy lies behind that dialog. This new guide will demystify that law and policy by providing the necessary legal background and context for journalists and others who want to understand ongoing policy debates.

Written by seasoned experts, each chapter contains a summary of legal and policy issues of significance and is accompanied by an annotated bibliography for further reading. The book is divided into four parts:

• Part I provides an overview of the basic issues of constitutional and international law including discussion of the scope of the president's authority, the meaning and effect of the First Amendment, and the role of international law in American courts.
• Part II turns the focus to the military and explores questions about military organization and operations.
• Part III looks at the world of domestic law enforcement and counterterrorism.
• Part IV covers homeland security issues.

An added bonus: a list of experts to contact for additional background information is included in chapter.