Learning Objectives
As a result of reading this chapter, you will be able to
- Explain how modern-day law evolved from English common law
- Describe the three sources of law in the U.S. legal system
- Identify the differences between criminal and civil law
- Explain the difference between substantive and procedural law
- Review two critical elements of the criminal law—criminal intent (mens rea) and the physical commission of the criminal act (actus reus)
- Describe how felonies and misdemeanors are placed into two separate broad categories
- Delineate the definitions of, and distinctions between, crimes against persons and property; the different degrees of homicide; and offenses classified as public order, white-collar, and organized crimes
- Explain the three primary methods for measuring crime and advantages and disadvantages of each