CRJ 220 Criminal Judiciary

This course examines the structure, jurisdiction, and procedures of different courts: federal, state, adult, and juvenile. It also examines the detailed processes of bail, court procedures, and conviction.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: CRJ 101.

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

CRJ 220 Criminal Judiciary

Campus Location

  • Georgetown

Effective Date

2022-51

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: CRJ 101.

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course examines the structure, jurisdiction, and procedures of different courts: federal, state, adult, and juvenile. It also examines the detailed processes of bail, court procedures, and conviction.

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Describe the historical development of the judicial system in the United States (U.S.).  (CCC 1, 3, 4; PGC 2, 3, 5)
  2. Explain the function of the judicial system and how it interfaces with law enforcement. (CCC1, 2, 3, 4, 5; PGC 2, 3)
  3. Explain the trial process. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  4. Explain the sentencing process. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1,5)
  5. Describe post-conviction processes. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
  6. Explain the historical development of the juvenile court system and compare the current role of the juvenile court system. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 4, 5)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Describe the historical development of the judicial system in the United States (U.S.).
    1. Identify and explain the function of each agency involved in the criminal justice system.
    2. Identify the actors in the courthouse.
    3. Identify the steps of criminal procedure.
    4. Identify and explain the origin and types of laws.
    5. Compare and contrast criminal law with civil law.
    6. Evaluate the pros and cons of constant and changing criminal law.
    7. Identify the various types of courts within the judicial system, and explain how they interface.
    8. Identify and explain the various levels and authority of different judges.
    9. Explain the decision-making process, and evaluate the use of discretion.
  2. Explain the function of the judicial system and how it interfaces with law enforcement.
    1. Identify and explain the philosophical and legal bases for the operation of law enforcement.
    2. Explain the significance of probable cause and due process of law.
    3. Discuss the elements of arrest and detention.
    4. Describe the position of the prosecutor, and analyze the influence of the office.
    5. Describe the position of the defense attorney, and analyze the influence of the position.
    6. Discuss the role and needs of the victim.
    7. Discuss the effects of a plea at the initial appearance or at a preliminary hearing.
    8. Discuss the need for and effect of bail.
  3. Explain the trial process.
    1. Analyze the disclosure and suppression of evidence, including confessions.
    2. Explain the concept and application of the exclusionary rule.
    3. Evaluate the value of plea-bargaining.
    4. Describe the role of a law enforcement officer, victim, witness, and defendant.
    5. Describe the history of trial by jury.
    6. Explain the role of the jury.
    7. Analyze the influence of the prosecutor and defense attorney.
    8. Evaluate the value of modern jury trial.
    9. Explain the controversy of bail or jail.
  4. Explain the sentencing process.
    1. Explain the philosophy of sentencing.
    2. Explain the controversy of the different types of sentencing.
    3. Critique the value of sentencing.
    4. Discuss and evaluate the decision-making process.
    5. Discuss judicial responsibility.
    6. Discuss sentencing guidelines.
    7. Explain the function of the sentencing accountability commission in the sentencing process.
  5. Describe the post-conviction process.
    1. Discuss the purposes of appeal.
    2. Discuss the scope appellate review.
    3. Define the appellate court procedures.
    4. Discuss how habeas corpus remedies differ from appeals.
    5. Discuss the scope of the various courts in the appellate process.
  6. Explain the historical development of the juvenile court system and compare the current role of the juvenile court system.
    1. Describe the historical development of the juvenile court.
    2. Evaluate the difference between juvenile and adult court.
    3. Explain the organization of the juvenile court structure.
    4. Define jurisdiction and age of the defendant.
    5. Explain the due process in juvenile courts.
    6. Identify and explain the courtroom work group.
    7. Categorize the steps of the juvenile court process.
    8. Discuss the future of the juvenile courts.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative: Exam (4) (equally weighted)

60%

Formative: Quizzes, assignments, journals, presentations (equally weighted)

40%

TOTAL

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

CRJAASCRJ

  1. Discuss criminal justice professionalism in the performance of duties.
  2. Articulate the function and interaction of criminal justice agencies and organizations.
  3. Explain interviewing, counseling, and crisis intervention techniques with diverse criminal justice populations.
  4. Apply knowledge of causation and correction to juvenile and adult offenders.
  5. Describe the legal principles and practices of criminal and constitutional law.

CRJAASLEO

  1. Employ criminal justice ethics in the performance of duties.
  2. Employ the legal principles and practices of criminal and constitutional law.
  3. Utilize interviewing, counseling, and crisis intervention techniques with diverse criminal justice populations.
  4. Apply the knowledge and skills of a law enforcement professional.
  5. Meet the academic training eligibility requirements for advanced standing status at the Delaware State Police Academy.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.