Multimedia Resources
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Learning Objective 9.1 Discuss the differences between the criminal courts and the civil courts
Video Link: 2/4/1997: O.J. Simpson Civil Trial Verdict
Summary: Video details the civil trial against OJ Simpson.
Audio Link: Supreme Court Considers Limits On Warrantless Cellphone Searches
Summary: The United States Supreme Court heard arguments today in a case that reaches into almost every American's pocket or purse. At issue is whether police can search cellphones without obtaining a warrant at the time of an arrest.
Learning Objective 9.2 Identify the different types of jurisdiction that impact how courts hear cases
Video Link: Dzhokhar Tsarnaev indicted on criminal charges for Boston Marathon bombing
Summary: Boston Marthon bombing suspect indicted by federal prosecutors.
Learning Objective 9.3 Describe the typical structure of the state and federal court systems
Audio Link: Miranda's Foundation, and Today's Rights
Summary: Forty years ago today, The Supreme Court ruled in the case of Miranda v. Arizona. Since then, the Miranda rights have become deeply imbedded in the legal system — and the culture of TV cop shows. Commentator Melissa Waters, who teaches at Washington and Lee Law School, has been working with Iraqi judges and lawyers as they build a new legal system.
Web Link: United States Courts
Summary: Website for the United States Court System
Learning Objective 9.4 Discuss the various actors in the court system and their duties
Video Link: A prosecutor's vision for a better justice system
Summary: Adam Foss, a prosecutor with the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office in Boston, makes his case for a reformed justice system that replaces wrath with opportunity, changing people's lives for the better instead of ruining them.
Web Link: American Bar Association
Summary: Website for the American Bar Association