GSU Library Research Guides: CRJU: Criminal Law Online: Module 1: Introduction to Criminal Law

Overview and Objectives

Overview

This module will introduce students to the concepts of government including criminal law and branches of government.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the module students will know:

the difference between criminal and civil law.
the branches of government
sources of law
burdens of proof
theories of punishment

Readings

Chapter 1: Introduction to Criminal Law
Chapter 2: The Legal System in the United States
Chapter 3: Constitutional Protections

From: Criminal Law, University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing through the eLearning Support Initiative

Supplemental Reading

Legal Information Institute of Cornell Law: Overview of Law

Supplemental Readings and Lectures

Video: It's the Law
The laws of the criminal justice system are primarily framed by the Constitution, which sets the standards of due process. In this program, lawyers, prosecutors, and judges explain the differences between misdemeanors and felonies, the various degrees of crimes, and the elements of a crime. Investigation procedures in the gathering of evidence and statements are discussed. Legal experts and police officers clearly illustrate such concepts as 5th Amendment rights, Miranda warnings, the “stop and frisk” rule, search warrants, and the “knock and announce” rule. Probable cause and arrest procedures are also demonstrated. A Cambridge Educational Production. (30 minutes)
Video: U.S. Judicial System
There are 51 court systems; one federal and one for each state. Learn about state court and federal court system tiers. The U.S. Supreme Court hears cases from circuit and state supreme courts that raise constitutional issues or have broad national impact, such as Roe v. Wade.
Overview of Criminal Law: Module 1 of 5
When we think about crime, we instinctively understand the need for punishment and accountability. After all, without recognized rules of behavior and systems for dealing with rule-breakers, societies could not maintain order. Still, reasons for criminal laws and criminal punishments can be broken down into five categories:

1. Retribution

2. Deterrence

3. Incapacitation

4. Rehabilitation

5. Restitution

Videos

Videos from Films on Demand

Films Media Group. (2004). American law: How it works. Films On Demand.

DESCRIPTION

This program traces the history of the U.S. legal system from its origins in English common law; through the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and amendments; to current legislative and judicial processes. It defines such terms as habeas corpus, voir dire, and stare decisis and explores Supreme Court decisions.

Criminal Law Segment - Hear examples of criminal law, including misdemeanors and felonies. Learn about the criminal procedure, including individual protections stipulated in the 5th and 14th amendments. Washington explains the Miranda v. Arizona ruling.

U. S. Judicial System Segment - There are 51 court systems; one federal and one for each state. Learn about state court and federal court system tiers. The U.S. Supreme Court hears cases from circuit and state supreme courts that raise constitutional issues or have broad national impact, such as Roe v. Wade.