#1
What is the primary purpose of criminal law?
To maintain social order
ExplanationCriminal law serves to uphold societal stability and prevent unlawful behavior.
#2
In the context of criminal sentencing, what does the term 'retribution' mean?
Punishment inflicted on the offender as a form of revenge
ExplanationRetribution involves imposing punishment on offenders to exact moral vengeance and uphold societal norms.
#3
In criminal justice, what does the term 'arraignment' refer to?
Formal reading of charges to the accused
ExplanationArraignment involves informing the accused of the charges against them in a formal setting.
#4
Which amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
Fourth Amendment
ExplanationThe Fourth Amendment safeguards individuals from unjustified government intrusion and protects their privacy.
#5
What does the term 'recidivism' refer to in the context of criminal justice?
The rate at which released prisoners commit new offenses
ExplanationRecidivism denotes the tendency of individuals to reoffend or relapse into criminal behavior after being released from incarceration or supervision.
#6
Which U.S. Supreme Court case established the principle of 'Miranda rights' for suspects in custody?
Miranda v. Arizona
ExplanationThe landmark case of Miranda v. Arizona mandated that suspects must be informed of their constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel, during custodial interrogation.
#7
What is the role of a public defender in the criminal justice system?
To defend individuals who cannot afford private legal representation
ExplanationPublic defenders provide legal counsel and representation to defendants who lack the financial means to hire private attorneys.
#8
What is the concept of 'mens rea' in criminal law?
Criminal intent or guilty mind
Explanation'Mens rea' refers to the mental state or intention behind committing a crime, which is crucial in determining culpability.
#9
What is the purpose of parole in the criminal justice system?
Supervised release of an inmate before completion of sentence
ExplanationParole allows for the supervised reintegration of inmates into society under specific conditions before serving their full sentence.
#10
What is the purpose of a grand jury in the criminal justice system?
To conduct initial investigations and decide if there is enough evidence for a trial
ExplanationGrand juries assess evidence presented by prosecutors to determine whether there is probable cause to proceed with a trial against an accused individual.
#11
What is the 'exclusionary rule' in criminal procedure?
The exclusion of evidence obtained illegally from a trial
ExplanationThe exclusionary rule prohibits the admission of unlawfully obtained evidence in court proceedings to safeguard defendants' rights against unconstitutional searches and seizures.
#12
What is the 'beyond a reasonable doubt' standard in criminal trials?
The standard of proof required for a conviction
ExplanationThe 'beyond a reasonable doubt' standard is the highest burden of proof in criminal trials, requiring evidence that is convincing and leaves no reasonable doubt of the defendant's guilt.