Introduction to Criminal Justice

Catalog description

This is an introductory course designed to provide foundational knowledge of the criminal justice system. The course explores the different components of the criminal justice system and the role of professionals involved with emphasis on professional communications. It examines the sources and the purposes of law as an effort to regulate behavior in an organized society. Topics include elements of a criminal offense, the function and purpose of law enforcement, the structure of the judicial system, and the steps of a criminal case from investigation to conviction and appeal. It also examines the purposes and types of punishments and unique aspects of the juvenile justice system.