CJ& 110 - Criminal Law

Credits: 3
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 33
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Introduction to the history of criminal law which provides a philosophical understanding of the process of crime and punishment, understanding the various mental states required for criminal responsibility, statutory and common law defenses, terminology, legislation and adjudication, and common law defenses to criminal charges such as entrapment, self-defense and necessity. Includes elements of crimes as set forth in the Washington criminal codes (RCW, WAC and selected Federal Codes).

Prerequisite: CJ& 101 with a D or higher.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Elective Requirements: Fulfills Academic Electives
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Understand basic development (nature and origins) of criminal law and its application to society.
Develop a comprehension of main points and key terms denoted specifically to the application of criminal law.
Possess knowledge of the various processes of crime and punishment.
Understand the various mental states consistent with certain criminal acts and criminal responsibility.
Differentiate between a crime and a tort.
Develop an understanding of the general principles of Criminal Liability.
Recall the differences between crimes against persons, property, public order and morals.
Develop an understanding of juvenile crime and the applicability of criminal law.
Know the differences between insanity, intoxication and diminished capacity.
Understand the legislative role in the development of criminal law.
Relate the elements that comprise the various criminal laws as written in the RCW of WA State.
Develop a working knowledge of the WAC.
Develop working knowledge and be able to differentiate between those crimes which are crimes against person, property and public order and morals.
Understand and recall the felony crimes as stated in the WA State vehicle code (RCW 46).
Recognize and discuss the crimes relating to children, especially those involving sex offenses.
Understand the crimes and ramifications relating to domestic violence.
PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL: Identify, interpret and apply local, state, tribal, and federal laws relevant to the fair and equitable administration of justice.
PROGRAM OUTCOME: Identify, interpret and apply local, state, tribal, and federal laws relevant to the fair and equitable administration of justice.

Course Contents

Nature and origins of criminal law.
General principles of criminal law and criminal liability.
Parties to a crime / vicarious liability.
Criminal responsibility and the capacity to commit a crime.
Criminal defenses, punishment and jurisdiction.
Washington Administration Code (WACs).
Revised Code of Washington, RCW 8, 9, 9A, 13, 46, 69.
Applicable Federal Laws.

Instructional Units: 3