Exam 1: The Nature, Purpose, and Function of Criminal Law

Monika is the defendant in a criminal trial. After days of jury deliberation she is found guilty. The judge quickly moves into the sentencing phase. Later the same day, she is sentenced to 7 months in prison. She most likely committed ______.

All of the following are considered to be sources of criminal law in the United States EXCEPT ______.

Some states remain ______, meaning that the common law may be applied where the state legislature has not adopted a law in a particular area.

Abigail has been having some hard times financially. She recently lost her job and is finding it difficult to make ends meet. She has been considering breaking in to homes in a nice neighborhood to see what she can find to take to the pawn shop. She knows that stealing is wrong but thinks people may not notice if she takes items they don't need. Abigail is considering committing which type of crime?

What is criminal law?

All criminal convictions result in a fine or imprisonment.

Which of the following best identifies the basic principles of criminal law?

List the eight classification categories of crime according to their subject matter.

Professors Jerome Hall and Wayne R. LaFave identify the basic principles that comprise the general part of criminal law. List and describe these parts of criminal law and explain their importance.

The primary purpose or function of criminal law is to help maintain social order and stability.

What is the difference between mala in se and mala prohibita crimes? Provide one example for each.

Eric was driving his vehicle excessively fast in order to get to ComicCon on time. He was driving 79 in a 65 mph zone. He is pulled over by a stealthy police officer and written a ticket that carries a large fine. His behavior would likely be classified as a ______.

The ______ is a standardized set of laws established to encourage states to adopt a uniform codes and corresponding definitions.

What is the foundation of the criminal justice system?

______ crimes are considered "inherently evil" and would be evil even if not prohibited by law.

The United States does not have a system of dual sovereignty.

A legal action in which one individual receives financial compensation from another individual for physical and emotional injuries was likely the result of ______.

The ability of legislators to enact criminal laws is not limited by public opinion.

For each of the subject matter classifications, provide at least one example.

The ______ of the United States Constitution provides that the federal law is superior to a state law within those areas that are preserved for the federal government.