After finishing this chapter, you should be able to:

3.1 Summarize the historical development of the law and explain the reforms introduced by the Classical School.

3.2 Identify the basic principles and goals associated with the rule of law.

3.3 Compare the two main sources of criminal law: common law and constitutional law.

3.4 Explain the differences between the different types of law.

3.5 Define the elements of a crime and two main classifications of crime.

3.6 Review the types of criminal defenses available to defendants.

3.7 Discuss how legal standards and practices have evolved in recent history.

3.8 Distinguish the importance of victim rights and their role in the criminal justice system.