Fundamentals of Criminal Justice System Quiz

Test your understanding of criminology with questions on the functions, legal principles, and key figures of the criminal justice system.

#1

Which of the following is a primary function of the criminal justice system?

Punishment
Rehabilitation
Deterrence
All of the above
#2

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?

First Amendment
Second Amendment
Fourth Amendment
Fifth Amendment
#3

Who is responsible for determining guilt or innocence in a criminal trial?

Judge
Jury
Defense attorney
Prosecutor
#4

What is the term for a legal proceeding where a defendant is brought before a court to hear the charges against them and enter a plea?

Arraignment
Trial
Sentencing
Preliminary hearing
#5

What is the term for a formal charge accusing someone of committing a crime?

Indictment
Subpoena
Warrant
Summons
#6

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a violent crime?

Assault
Burglary
Robbery
Homicide
#7

Who is considered the 'father' of modern criminology?

Auguste Comte
Emile Durkheim
Cesare Beccaria
Jeremy Bentham
#8

What is the term for a legal defense where the defendant admits to committing the crime but claims it was justified?

Alibi
Entrapment
Self-defense
Insanity
#9

Which of the following is NOT a component of the criminal justice system in the United States?

Law enforcement
Judiciary
Parole system
Legislature
#10

Which of the following is NOT a recognized defense in criminal law?

Duress
Entrapment
Perjury
Necessity
#11

What is the term for the standard of proof required in a criminal trial?

Preponderance of evidence
Beyond a reasonable doubt
Clear and convincing evidence
Probable cause
#12

What is the term for a legal principle that prohibits the government from punishing individuals for conduct that was not previously declared criminal?

Ex post facto law
Habeas corpus
Bill of attainder
Double jeopardy
#13

In the context of criminal law, what does the term 'mens rea' refer to?

Actus reus
Guilty mind
Innocent mind
Res gestae
#14

In a criminal trial, what is the burden of proof on the prosecution?

Preponderance of evidence
Clear and convincing evidence
Probable cause
Beyond a reasonable doubt
#15

Which of the following is NOT a factor that may influence the severity of a criminal sentence?

Severity of the crime
Defendant's criminal history
Race or ethnicity of the defendant
Socioeconomic status of the defendant
#16

What is the term for a legal defense where the defendant argues that they were forced to commit a crime against their will?

Coercion
Insanity
Necessity
Duress

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