The study of women in relation to crime and the justice system remains neglected by most criminologists and justice officials--until now. This remarkable volume breaks new ground by presenting a three-part examination of women as victims of crime, as criminals, and as professionals working in criminal justice. Within this scope, the author offers significant perspectives through empirical studies, as well as experts in the fields of criminology and criminal justice. The multi-faceted roles of women with respect to crime and the justice system are explored individually and collectively, as well as in relation to the roles of men. The significance of the historical treatment of women is also examined, in addition to the women's movement, the rise in women's crime and victimization, theoretical and statistical approaches, and prominent literature in the field. In addition, pertinent social and legal questions for the future are addressed.