Learning Objectives

After you have read this chapter:

1. You will understand the sources of law, where to find the law, and how precedent controls future court decisions.
2. You will be able to articulate core legal principles found in criminal law and procedure cases, such as due process and the reasonable person.
3. You will know the actors in the criminal justice system and the purposes of punishment.
4. You will understand how federal law protects citizen’s rights and immunity for criminal justice professionals.
5. You will be able to explain the role of federalism in controlling state criminal justice decisions.