Types of Defenses
This defense asserts that the defendant committed the crime, but they had no intent to break the law due to mental illness or defect.
What is the insanity defense?
In this 1995 case, a football player was acquitted of double murder charges, despite substantial evidence.
Who is O.J. Simpson?
This is the burden of proof required in criminal trials, meaning the prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond this threshold.
What is "beyond a reasonable doubt"?
This amendment guarantees the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination during criminal investigations and trials.
What is the Fifth Amendment?
Emmett Till was born in this city, which was also his hometown.
What is Chicago?
This defense is used when a defendant argues they were forced to commit a crime due to the threat of immediate harm.
What is duress?
This 1966 case established the "Miranda Rights," requiring police to inform suspects of their rights before questioning.
What is Miranda v. Arizona?
This concept refers to the obligation of the prosecution to prove every element of the crime charged.
What is the prosecution's burden of proof?
This amendment protects a defendant's right to a speedy and public trial.
What is the Sixth Amendment?
Emmett Till was 14 years old when he was murdered in 1955. He was visiting this state when the incident occurred.
What is Mississippi?
This defense occurs when a defendant claims they were acting in self-defense to protect themselves from imminent harm.
What is self-defense?
This 1984 case determined that evidence obtained from an illegal search may not be used in court.
What is Mapp v. Ohio?
In a criminal trial, this standard refers to the level of proof that the defendant may provide in their defense.
What is the "preponderance of the evidence" standard (typically used in civil cases)?
This amendment protects the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures.
What is the Fourth Amendment?
Emmett Till's mother, who became a vocal advocate for justice after his death, was known by this name.
Who is Mamie Till-Mobley?
This defense occurs in fear of injury or death from a probable assault by the actor
What is the Battered Woman Syndrome Defense?
In this 1992 case, the U.S. Supreme Court held that a defendant’s right to an attorney could not be waived without understanding the consequences.
What is Faretta v. California?
The defense may present this kind of evidence to argue that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.
What is a rebuttal?
The Sixth Amendment also ensures the right to legal counsel, even if the defendant cannot afford one.
What is the right to an attorney?
Emmett Till was accused of flirting with this white woman, leading to his brutal murder.
Who is Carolyn Bryant?
This defense occurs when they are incapable of determining right from wrong.
This famous 1932 case involved the conviction of a man named Bruno Hauptmann for the kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh’s son?
What is the Lindbergh kidnapping case?
This principle refers to the idea that the defendant does not have to prove anything, and the burden is on the prosecution.
What is the presumption of innocence?
This amendment provides protection against excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment.
What is the Eighth Amendment?
Emmett Till’s body was found in this river after he was abducted.
What is the Tallahatchie River?