Laws Flashcards
Why do we have laws?
Keep peace and prevent violent acts and to set rules for resolving civil disputes
When are individuals responsible for knowing laws?
At all times and ignorance of the law does not make you above the law
What is the purpose behind criminal laws?
Prevent people from deliberately or recklessly harming each other or each other’s property
What is the purpose behind the punishment of crimes?
To discourage breaking the laws
What is the purpose behind civil laws?
Regulate non-criminal behavior that may end up in legal disputes
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felony-
Serious crimes w serious consequences such as murder, rape, and kidnapping
Misdemeanor-
Punished w a fine or jail sentence of less than a year for crimes such as vandalism and stealing inexpensive items
What is a statute?
Laws written by the legislative branch of a state
What is an ordinance?
Laws of a city or county
What is included in laws regarding families?
Divorce, custody, and alimony
How can citizens change laws?
Citizens must work peacefully to change unfair or outdated laws using Petitions and assemblies or Speak with legislators
How is the juvenile justice system different than the adult justice system?
- The adult justice system is based on punishment, while the juvenile system is based on rehab.
- The Juvenile court is also away from the public, and the proceedings for adult court is public.
When can a juvenile be charged and punished as an adult?
When the charge is a felony or multiple offenses, can a juvenile be charged as an adult.
What are Family in need of Services? How do they affect juveniles?
They regulate the juvenile’s behavior.
Ex- running away, truancy,and being disobedient to parents
What is EJJ? What is another name for EJJ?
- AKA extended juvenile jurisdiction
- It includes juveniles 14 or older that are charged with serious juvenile crimes.
- Can be prosecuted and tried as an adult with delayed adult sentencing
