Course Description
Substantive criminal law in the United States. State and federal statutes and selected cases, with particular focus on the definition and classification of crime, the elements of crime, types of crime, and justifications and excuses related to criminal liability.
Athena Title
CRIMINAL LAW
Prerequisite
POLS 1101
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Students will be introduced to the theories underlying American criminal law as well as the essential principles. Students will explore some of the explanations for criminal punishment and the students will learn to apply legal rules to factual situations. Students will examine and discuss other salient issues in contemporary criminal justice, public policy, and legal discourse. Students should attain a basic understanding of criminal law and the rationales underlying criminal punishment. Students should attain an ability to critically analyze legal case law and apply legal principles to factual situations. Students should attain an ability to discuss legal and policy issues in a disciplined and cogent manner.
Topical Outline
Processes and Purposes Sources and Limits of the Criminal Law Mental State The Act Requirement Homicide: Using Mental State and Other Factors to Classify Crimes Mental Disease or Defect Alcoholism and Addiction: Intoxication; Immaturity Justification and Excuse Rape: The Dilemmas of Law Reform Attempts Conspiracy and Solicitation Parties; Liability for the Conduct of Another
Syllabus