Criminal Law Basics
An act or omission that violates a law and is punishable by the state
What is a Crime?
The constitutional right to bear arms, subject to ongoing debate
What is the Second Amendment?
Requesting or encouraging someone else to commit a crime
What is Solicitation?
Crimes that do not require proof of intent; liability is based solely on the act itself
What is Strict Liability?
Monetary penalties imposed as a punishment for violating a law
What are Fines?
A serious crime typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death
What is a Felony?
The principle that by driving, one agrees to BAC testing if suspected of DUI
What is Implied Consent?
Taking substantial steps towards committing a crime but failing to complete it
What is an Attempt?
The 'guilty mind' or mental state of a defendant at the time of committing a crime
What is Mens Rea?
Work performed as a form of punishment in the community
What is Community Service?
A less serious offense, punishable by fines, probation, or jail time of less than one year
What is a Misdemeanor?
Laws protecting individuals who help others in emergencies from legal liability
What are Good Samaritan Laws?
An agreement between two or more people to commit a crime
What is a Conspiracy?
A preparatory or incomplete crime where steps are taken toward committing an offense
What is an Inchoate Crime?
Compensation paid by offenders to victims for losses or damages caused by the crime
What is Restitution?
The main actor who directly commits a crime
What is a Principal?
Regulations regarding firearms acquisition, including background checks
What are Dealer Regulations?
Crimes that occur when a person fails to perform an action required by law
What are Crimes of Omission?
The specific components that must be proven to establish criminal liability
What are the Elements of a Crime?
Confinement in a jail or prison as a form of punishment
What is Incarceration?
Someone who intentionally helps another person commit a crime
What is an Accomplice?
Laws regulating the use, possession, and distribution of controlled substances
What are Substance Abuse Laws?
An organized group that engages in criminal activities
What are Gangs?
This individual assists in planning or preparing a crime before it is committed, making them liable as an accomplice.
What is an accessory before the fact?
The temporary or permanent revocation of one's driving privileges
What is License Suspension?