Criminal Law Basics
What is the primary purpose of criminal law?
To define offenses, regulate the apprehension, charging, and trial of suspected offenders, and fix penalties for convicted persons.
What is the Miranda Warning?
A statement of rights read to suspects in custody before questioning, including the right to remain silent and to an attorney.
What is the role of the judge during a trial?
To ensure the trial follows legal procedures and to instruct the jury on the law.
What is parole?
Early release from prison under supervision.
What age group does the juvenile justice system primarily serve?
Youth under 18 years old.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
A felony is a serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison; a misdemeanor is less serious and typically punished by less than one year in jail or a fine.
Which U.S. Supreme Court case established the Miranda Warning?
Miranda v. Arizona (1966).
Who has the burden of proof in a criminal case?
The prosecution.
What is probation?
A court-ordered period of supervision in the community instead of jail time.
What is the goal of the juvenile justice system?
Rehabilitation rather than punishment.
What must the prosecution prove in a criminal case?
Guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
What is probable cause?
A reasonable belief that a person has committed or is committing a crime.
What does it mean to be acquitted?
To be found not guilty of the charges.
What is the difference between jail and prison?
Jail is for short-term sentences or pretrial detention; prison is for long-term sentences after conviction.
What is a status offense?
An act that is only considered illegal because of the offender’s age (e.g., truancy or curfew violation)
What is the legal term for a defendant’s formal statement that they are guilty or not guilty?
A plea
What is the main responsibility of local police departments?
To enforce local and state laws and maintain public order and safety.
What is a plea bargain?
An agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence.
What is recidivism?
The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
What is adjudication in juvenile court?
The process of determining whether a juvenile committed the alleged offense.
What is the Latin term meaning “guilty mind,” referring to criminal intent?
Mens rea.
What federal agency investigates violations of federal laws involving firearms and explosives?
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
What is double jeopardy?
The constitutional protection that prevents someone from being tried twice for the same crime.
What is restorative justice?
A system that focuses on repairing harm done by crime through reconciliation with victims and the community.
What is diversion?
A program that redirects juveniles away from formal processing in the justice system toward rehabilitation or community service.