Welcome!Introduction to the American Legal

System

Mr. Stewartmstewart@wmrhsd.org

American Legal System• This course is an introductory course in

CRIMINOLOGY.• This is an elective SEMESTER course.• Students will understand the

characteristics of the criminal justice system.

• They will learn how the criminal justice system is supposed to operate.

• They will examine the various flaws of the system as well.

Topics of Study

• Students will also examine many HIGH INTEREST criminal justice issues: – DEVIANCE

– CAPITAL PUNISHMENT– THE PRISON EXPERIENCE

– THE MENTALLY ILL AND CRIME– THE INSANITY DEFENSE

– TREATMENT OF JUVENILE OFFENDERS– THE “WAR ON DRUGS” AND ITS IMPACT ON THE JUSTICE SYSTEM

– INCARCERATION OF INNOCENT PEOPLE– FORCED/COERCED CONFESSIONS

– CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR CASE STUDES• Criminal justice process – from investigation to adjudication

• Rights and responsibilities of individuals

Assessment of Student Performance

• 4 formal tests• Position papers on issues• Daily preparation • Daily participation• My school website

• Potential field trips…– East Jersey State Prison