Criminal Law
Chapter 3
Chapter Overview
Our laws in the United States detail crimes and provide punishment by fine, imprisonment, or both. Felonies are major crimes and misdemeanors are less serious crimes. In this chapter, you will learn about crimes against people, crimes against property, crimes involving controlled substances, and computer crimes.
Classifications of Crime
A CRIME is an act against the public good and can be punished in the U.S. by fine, imprisonment, or both.
- The PLAINTIFF is the party that accuses a person of a crime and the PROSECUTOR is the government attorney who presents the case in court against the person accused.
- The DEFENDANT is the person accused of committing the crime.
Felony
A FELONY is a major crime punishable by imprisonment or death.
- murder
- manslaughter
- rape
- arson
- robbery
Misdemeanor
A MISDEMEANOR is a less serious crime with a less severe penalty, such as a fine or brief imprisonment (less than 1 year) in county or city jail.
- leaving the scene of an accident
- purchasing alcohol while underage
- driving without a license
- shoplifting
- DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs)
- disorderly conduct (example: fighting in public)
Federal vs. State
The federal government does not have police power. They can only make criminal law statutes over areas in which is has jurisdiction.
- cyberstalking
The state has police power and can make criminal law statutes.