Criminal Justice

Catalog description

This course offers an overview of the United States criminal justice system. It explores the full criminal justice process - from the commission of a crime to adjudication and punishment - and examines the essential elements that constitute criminal offenses. Students will analyze the goals and forms of punishment, as well as substantive criminal law, including the prosecution of homicides, sexual assaults, and property crimes. The course also delves into legal defenses such as self-defense, insanity, and duress. Additionally, students will study procedural criminal law, with a focus on constitutional protections afforded by the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Amendments, as well as the writ of habeas corpus. Finally, the curriculum evaluates the roles and impacts of law enforcement agencies, policing strategies, and correctional institutions within the U.S. justice system. This course is offered in person in Washington, D.C. only to students who are participating in the Bing Stanford in Washington Program.