Description:

After taking this course, the student will be able to state the two basic elements necessary for any crime and the philosophy behind these two elements. After a detailed exploration of common law crimes and selected Kansas and Missouri statutes, the student will be able to classify common law crimes and state the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor. The student will understand the significance of the separation of powers doctrine and its application to criminal law and the constant interplay of the U.S. Constitution in criminal law. 3 hrs. lecture/wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate in writing the student’s ability to recognize specific crimes and the degree of offenses involved.
2. Discuss the elements of each crime and category of crimes.
3. Recognize and discuss basic rules of criminal procedure and the process whereby a state seeks to convict and punish an individual for a criminal offense.
4. Explain the principles of criminal liability and how these principles affect criminal law.
5. Define the terms used in the criminal code.
6. Analyze and explain the different roles played by prosecutors and defense attorneys in criminal law.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Introduction
   A. Review the legal system of the United States
      1. Introduce the legal system in the United States
      2. Discuss Federalism, the Separation of Powers Doctrine and the
Supremacy clause from the Constitution
      3. Analyze the effect the above doctrines have on the government’s
ability to regulate behavior
   B. Understand the structure of the federal and state courts
   C. Review and list the various sources for criminal law
      1. Distinguish between criminal law and civil law
      2. Distinguish between criminal law and criminal procedure
      3. Review and list the effect selected sources have on the law

II. Fundamental Analysis of the Mental and Physical Elements of Criminal
Offenses
   A. Review the two basic elements of any offense
   B. Understand what is the required mental state for criminal liability
      1. List the mental liabilities under the Model Penal Code
      2. Compare the mental liability in Kansas and Missouri to common law
and the Model Penal Code
   C. Define and discuss what qualifies as a physical act for criminal
liability
   D. Differentiate what mental processes and physical acts would not
qualify

III. Review of Selected Categories of Crimes
   A. Review and state the elements necessary for criminal liability for
crimes against the person
      1. Recognize the necessary elements of each crime
      2. Demonstrate how “intent” is proven
   B. Review and state the elements necessary for criminal liability from
crimes against property and habitation
      1. Recognize the necessary elements of each crime
      2. Demonstrate how “intent” is proven
   C. Review and state the elements necessary for criminal liability for
crimes against the public
      1. Recognize the necessary elements of each crime
      2. Demonstrate how “intent” is proven
      3. Understand the effect religion has on morality crimes

IV. Parties to a Crime and Inchoate Crimes
   A. Analyze the various parties to one crime
      1. State the necessary elements for each party
      2. Explain the rationale for the differences in criminal liability
for each party
   B. Differentiate between a crime and an inchoate crime
      1. Comprehend the four tests used in inchoate crimes
      2. Demonstrate the differences in the four tests in a factual
scenario

V. Focus on Criminal Responsibility and Defenses
   A. Distinguish between a defense, an alibi and an affirmative defense
   B. List the three insanity defenses
      1. Compare and contrast the M’Naghten, irresistible impulse and
the Model Penal Code tests
      2. Discuss the rationale for the insanity defense and whether this
rationale is being met with the “guilty but insane” plea
      3. Apply the three tests in a factual situation
   C. State other matters that affect criminal responsibility such as
intoxication
   D. Compare and contrast when the law allows force and deadly force
against people
   E. Analyze selected constitutional defenses to certain crimes

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

1. Four unit examinations	         50 points each
2. One comprehensive final examination	100 points
3. Quizzes	                         10 points each
4. Written assignments	                 10 points each
5. A research paper over a major area   100 points
   of study in the class	

Caveats:

1. Students will need basic word processing and Internet searching skills for the completion of some papers, exercises and projects.

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.