CRIMINAL LAW, ARRESTS, TRAFFIC TICKETS
Below you will find a list of topics in the CRIMINAL LAW, ARRESTS, TRAFFIC TICKETS forum at the WORLD Law Direct Forums.
|
Body of law that defines criminal offenses, regulates the apprehension, charging, and trial of suspected offenders, and fixes punishment for convicted persons. Substantive criminal law defines particular crimes, and procedural law establishes rules for the prosecution of crime. In the U.S., substantive criminal law originated for the most part in common law, which was later codified in federal and state statutes. Modern criminal law has been affected considerably by the social sciences, especially in the areas of sentencing, legal research, legislation, and rehabilitation. Criminal Procedure in the United States The procedure in criminal cases is substantially the same throughout the United States. The person suspected of crime is taken into custody by a police officer, sometimes by service of a warrant of arrest. If the crime is serious, the case is first presented to a grand jury, which draws up an indictment if there is sufficient evidence to justify trial; otherwise it discharges the accused. While action is pending, the party charged may be released on bail. Trial is by jury or before a judge alone if a jury is not required, or if the defendant consents. The government presents its case (i.e., attempts to prove the allegations of the indictment), through the public prosecutor, usually called the district attorney, while the accused is represented by counsel that he or she has chosen or that the court has appointed. The legal presumption of innocence puts the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt on the prosecution, unless, of course, the defendant pleads guilty to the charge. Special rules restricting the introduction of evidence in criminal trials further protect the defendant. If the accused is found or adjudged innocent, he or she is discharged; if the accused is found guilty, the judge pronounces sentence. Classification of Crimes Crimes are usually classified as treason, felony, or misdemeanor. The fundamental distinction between felonies and misdemeanors rests with the penalty and the power of imprisonment. In general, a misdemeanor is an offense for which a punishment other than death or imprisonment in the state prison is prescribed by law. The term “degree of crime” refers to distinctions in the culpability of an offense because of the circumstances surrounding its commission. The Right to a Defense Every accused has the right to any and all defenses the law recognizes and permits—e.g., insanity, mistake of fact, or self-defense. An accused having the right to resort to several defenses may make an election as to the one on which he or she will rely. Are you about to be arrested? Are you under investigation? Have you been charged? Contact leading defense lawyers now! We will respond immediately. Consult a Lawyer - Click Here to Present Your Case Now! |
|
|
To post simply click the area of law most applicable to your issue and then click "New Thread".
Registration is not required. However, we encourage you to register in order to take advantage of many personalization features. If you are asking a question, our attorneys may respond. Postings are public.
Note: Only registered users may receive email notifications, subscribe to a thread they posted or get Private Messages in response. To consult your own Personal Lawyer click here! |
Sub-Forums : CRIMINAL LAW, ARRESTS, TRAFFIC TICKETS |
Search this Forum |
|
|
|
|
Our lawyers can help you avoid foreclosure to salvage your home,
buy time to pay mortgage debts, and resolve your financial troubles. Consult Your Own Personal Lawyer Now!
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 11:39 AM.



