Law and Legal Systems
What is the definition of law?
A rule of conduct enacted by authorities that prescribes or mandates behavior and regulates relationships between individuals or groups.
How does civil law differ from criminal law?
Civil law governs disputes between individuals and usually seeks compensation, not punishment.
What is a misdemeanor?
A less serious offense, typically punishable by less than a year in jail.
What does "actus reus" mean?
The physical act of committing a crime.
What are the three main elements of a crime?
Actus reus (guilty act), mens rea (guilty mind), and concurrence (both occur together).
What is the "rule of law"?
The idea that society must be governed by known, established laws applied fairly to everyone—no one is above the law.
What is administrative law?
Rules and regulations set by government agencies to control activities of industries and individuals.
What is an infraction?
A minor offense usually punishable by a fine, like jaywalking or littering.
What does "mens rea" mean?
The criminal intent or guilty state of mind when committing the act.
What is the "castle doctrine"?
The legal principle that allows people to use force to defend their home without retreating.
What are statutory laws?
Written or codified laws passed by legislative bodies.
What is a felony?
A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.
What is treason?
A U.S. citizen helping a foreign government harm the U.S., such as attempting to overthrow it.
What is strict liability?
Crimes that do not require proof of intent, such as some traffic violations.
What is the insanity defense?
A legal claim that a person was mentally incapable of understanding their actions at the time of the crime.
What is case law?
Law based on judicial decisions and the principle of precedent.
What is a misdemeanor?
A less serious offense, typically punishable by less than a year in jail.
What is espionage?
Illegally sharing national defense information with enemies; can be committed by non-citizens.
What is an alibi defense?
Claiming the defendant was somewhere else when the crime happened.
What is double jeopardy?
Being tried twice for the same crime, which is prohibited by law.
What does "jurisprudence" mean?
The philosophy or science of law and legal interpretation.
What is an infraction?
A minor offense usually punishable by a fine, like jaywalking or littering.
What is an inchoate offense?
A crime that was planned but not completed, like conspiracy or attempted crimes.
What is self-defense?
Using reasonable force to protect oneself from harm.
What is entrapment?
A violation of a defendant’s 6th Amendment right if a trial is unreasonably delayed.