Criminal Justice Basics
What is the system used to enforce laws, protect the public, and ensure justice?
criminal justice
What is an act that violates the law and is punishable by the government?
crime
How many elements must be present to charge a crime?
4
What defense claims a person was protecting themselves?
self-defense
Crimes involving force or threat of force are called what?
violent crimes
What are the three main components of the criminal justice system?
law enforcement, courts, and corrections
True or False: All harmful acts are crimes.
false
What term means “the guilty act”?
Actus Reus
What defense applies when someone is forced to commit a crime?
duress
Burglary and larceny are examples of what type of crime?
property crimes
Which component of criminal justice is responsible for punishing offenders?
corrections
Who must punish an act for it to be considered a crime?
government
What term means “the guilty mind” or intent?
Mens Rea
What defense argues the crime was necessary to prevent greater harm?
Necessity
Fraud and embezzlement fall under what category?
white-collar crimes
Which component decides guilt or innocence?
courts
If an act is harmful but not illegal, is it a crime?
No
Which element means someone or something was affected?
Harm
What defense applies when police pressure someone into committing a crime?
entrapment
Drug possession and gambling are examples of what type of crime?
victimless crimes
Which component investigates crimes and makes arrests?
law enforcement
What must an act be in order to be considered a crime?
illegal
Which element requires that the act be against the law?
Legality
What defense claims the person was not mentally capable of understanding their actions?
Insanity
Which type of crime is nonviolent and committed for financial gain?
white-collar crimes