#1
What does the term 'mens rea' refer to in criminal law?
A guilty mind
ExplanationRefers to the mental state or intention to commit a crime.
#2
What is the 'burden of proof' in a criminal trial?
The obligation of the prosecution to prove guilt
ExplanationLegal responsibility of the prosecution to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
#3
What is the 'insanity defense' in criminal law?
A claim of being unaware of the crime committed
ExplanationDefense asserting the defendant's inability to understand the nature or consequences of their actions.
#4
What is the 'Broken Windows' theory in policing?
An approach focusing on addressing minor offenses to prevent major crimes
ExplanationTheory asserting that addressing minor crimes can deter more serious criminal activity.
#5
What is the 'exclusionary rule' in criminal procedure?
A rule prohibiting the use of illegally obtained evidence in court
ExplanationBars admission of evidence obtained in violation of the defendant's constitutional rights.
#6
Which amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment?
Eighth Amendment
ExplanationConstitutional provision protecting against excessive or cruel punishment.
#7
What is the purpose of the Miranda warning given by law enforcement?
To inform individuals of their right to remain silent
ExplanationInforms suspects of their rights during interrogation to prevent self-incrimination.
#8
In the context of criminal law, what does 'double jeopardy' mean?
Being tried twice for the same crime
ExplanationProhibition against being prosecuted or punished twice for the same offense.
#9
What is the 'chain of custody' in criminal investigations?
The chronological documentation of evidence handling
ExplanationRecorded documentation of the chronological transfer and handling of evidence.
#10
What is the significance of the landmark case 'Gideon v. Wainwright'?
Establishing the right to an attorney for indigent defendants
ExplanationSupreme Court ruling ensuring legal representation for those who cannot afford it.
#11
What is 'community policing' in the context of law enforcement?
A strategy focusing on public collaboration and problem-solving
ExplanationLaw enforcement approach emphasizing community involvement and tailored solutions.
#12
What is the 'Three Strikes' law in the context of criminal sentencing?
A sentencing policy for repeat offenders
ExplanationPolicy imposing harsher sentences on repeat offenders, typically after three convictions.
#13
What is the difference between parole and probation in the criminal justice system?
Parole is the early release of a prisoner, while probation is an alternative to incarceration
ExplanationParole releases prisoners before completing their sentence, while probation avoids incarceration altogether.
#14
What is the purpose of a grand jury in the criminal justice system?
To determine if there is enough evidence for a trial
ExplanationEvaluates evidence to decide if there's enough to indict and proceed to trial.
#15
What is 'restorative justice' as an alternative approach to criminal punishment?
Focusing on rehabilitation and repairing harm caused
ExplanationEmphasizes reconciliation and addressing harm to victims and the community.
#16
What is the difference between 'jail' and 'prison' in the criminal justice system?
Jail is for short-term sentences, while prison is for long-term sentences
ExplanationJails hold individuals for short-term confinement, while prisons are for longer-term incarceration.
#17
What is the concept of 'probable cause' in the context of search and seizure?
A legal standard for justifying a search or arrest
ExplanationRequired legal basis for a search or seizure based on reasonable belief that a crime has been or will be committed.