Introduction to Law Flashcards
1. Describe the foundation of law as developed in U.S. legal system. 2. Define consitutional law as it applies to the structure & limitations of US govt. 3. Explain the concepts of statutory & criminal law in US legal system. 4. Explain how the application of civil law provisions impacts a law enforcement officer's action. 5. Explain the role of administrative law for U.S. govt agencies. 6. Explain how the application of case law impacts the interpretation of statutes & rules in the federa
Constitutional Law
Defines form of govt American’s have established. Identifies the powers and limitations of each branch.
3 Branches
Executive, legislative, & judicial.
Statutory Law
Written &; enacted by congress, state legislature, local governing authorities in response to perceived need.
Includes 1: criminal, 2: civil, 3: administrative, & 4: regulatory laws.
Criminal Law
Aspect of statutory law, identifies unacceptable behaviors & allows govt prosecution of those who commit them. Also sets punishments for unacceptable behavior.
Ordinance
enacted by municipal or county govt. “curfews for minor, parking regulation.” APPLY ONLY WITHIN JURISDICTION. Cannot conflict w/ state or federal law.
Civil Law
legal action that a person takes to resolve private dispute with another person. Must have recognized a cause of action.
Cause of action
Is to civil case what a criminal statute is to criminal case.
Administrative Law
body of law that allows for creation of public regulatory agencies. Contains ALL statutes, judicial decisions, & regulations that govern. Ex: FAC; governs training & certs for leo’s.
Precedent
sets example for what the courts are to follow unless a higher court changes the rule.
Bill of rights
First 10 amendments.
1st Amendment
Protects freedom of speech, press, peaceful assembly, & religion.
2nd Amendment
Guarantees right to bear arms. Chapter 790 FL Statuate
4th Amendment
Prohibits unreasonable search & seizure.
Home’s, vehicle’s, luggage, purses or other places where a reasonable expectation of privacy.
5th Amendment
- Prohibits compelled self incrimination.
- Requires grand jury for capital crimes, prohibits double jeopardy &deprivation of life w/o due process.
Affected LEO: interviewing & arresting suspects &taking action that violates due process.
6th Amendment
Informed of nature of charges, receive counsel, undergo speedy trial, confront witnesses, face impartial jury.
Affected LEO: making contact while suspect has counsel.
8th Amendment
Prohibits excessive bail, fines, & cruel/unusual punishment.
14th Amendment
Due process clause “no deprivation of life, liberty, or property w/o due process of law. Be fair and consistent with enforcement of law.”
Substantive
Due process is fair & consistent enforcement of laws.
Procedural
Steps that must be followed to protect individual rights.
Offense
Criminal/noncriminal acts that are punishable under Florida law.
Criminal Offense
Punishable by incarceration & classified as either Felony or Misdemeanor.
Noncriminal Offense
“Civil Infractions” punishable by monetary fines or something other than incarceration. Ex: Traffic offense
Felony
Any crime committed where the maximum penalty is death or incarceration in state correctional facility for more than 1 year.
Capital Felony
Highest class of felony; penalty is death or life w/o parole. Example: 1st degree murder, only penalty in which Florida may impose death penalty.
All other capital felonies require state to impose life w/o parole.
Example: Sexual battery w/ child under 12 by 18+ yr old.