Academics

CJ/SO 227 Law & Society (3)

While the focus of this course is on the origin and development of criminal law through history, significant attention is also given to contemporary issues and controversies. Specific emphasis is placed on the elements required by law for an act to constitute a crime, the significance of the mental state of the defendant, the burden of proof in trials, and the goals of the prescribed punishments available to courts. In addition, this course looks at issues such as the rule of law and its crucial role in democracy; and the relationship between law, especially constitutional law, and individual rights.