Criminal Law Basics

Since criminal law is such a broad subject area, navigating it can be an overwhelming task if you lack an understanding of the controlling laws and procedures. This section provides an introduction to the basic principles behind the criminal justice system, including police investigations, criminal trials, classifications of crimes, and the mental states required of certain crimes. You’ll find articles on self-defense and stand your ground laws, the differences between felonies and misdemeanors, the role of the jury in a criminal trial, the steps from being charged to going to trial, and how civil suits differ from criminal cases.

Criminal Law Overview Mens Rea, Understanding Criminal Law, Statutes of Limitations, More...

Classifications of Crimes Felonies, Misdemeanors, Infractions, More...