General Overview
What is criminal law?
Criminal law covers crimes against the state or society, such as theft, assault, or murder, and gives a punishment for those crimes.
What is the difference between criminal and civil law?
Criminal law deals with crimes against society, and prosecution by the state, whereas civil law deals with the dispute between the individuals and compensation is usually the aim.
Read Also:
- https://legalnexishub.com/25-legal-concepts-every-criminal-lawyer-should-know/
- https://legalnexishub.com/30-common-criminal-charges-explained/
- https://legalnexishub.com/40-faqs-about-criminal-law-and-justice-systems/
What are the categories of crimes?
Criminal laws usually classify crimes as felonies (serious crimes such as murder), misdemeanors (less serious crimes such as petty theft), and infractions (minor crimes such as parking tickets).
What is the legal burden of proof in criminal proceedings?
The burden of proof requires the prosecution to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant committed the crime.
Who are the protagonists in a criminal case?
The state or federal government (the prosecution) and the accused individual (the defendant).
Criminal Procedure
What is an arrest warrant?
A legal paper issued by a judge that grants law enforcement permission to arrest someone based on probable cause.
What is bail?
A sum of money or property given to ensure an accused person shows up in court as ordered.
What are Miranda rights?
Rights read to the suspect at arrest, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
What is a plea bargain?
An agreement between the prosecution and the defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence.
What is the difference between a trial and an arraignment?
An arraignment is the formal reading of charges where the defendant pleads guilty or not guilty, while a trial determines guilt or innocence.
Types of Crimes
What is a white-collar crime?
Non-violent crimes committed for monetary gain, including fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading.
What is the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary?
Theft: The act of taking someone’s property without permission.
Robbery: Theft by force or threats.
Burglary: Breaking and entering with intent to commit a crime.
What is self-defense?
Reasonable force to protect oneself from harm, when the threat is imminent and the response is proportional.
What is domestic violence?
Abuse or threats between spouses or other family members within a domestic relationship.
What are the distinctions between first-degree and second-degree murder?
First-degree murder: Killing with premeditation and intent.
Second-degree murder: No premeditation but killing with intent to harm.
Legal Rights
What are my rights if I am arrested?
Right to remain silent, right to attorney, and right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures.
What is double jeopardy?
Protection against being tried twice for the same offense after acquittal or conviction, under the Fifth Amendment.
What is a right to a speedy trial? The Sixth Amendment ensures a fair trial without unreasonable delay, providing justice for the defendant.
What is a presumption of innocence? The principle that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty.
What is the role of a defense attorney?
To represent the accused, ensure his rights are protected, and to provide the best possible defense.
These questions raise important issues concerning criminal law.
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