Key Terms
EXAMPLE
An accountant thinks about stealing from the company but does nothing. No crime.
Criminal standard
Beyond a reasonable doubt
Civil standard
Preponderance of the evidence
Civil case example
Notice by letter plus written appeal opportunity.
Criminal case example
Right to confront witnesses, right to see prosecution's evidence before trial.
White-collar crime
Nonviolent; committed in a professional capacity; financially motivated; accomplished through deception.
Blue-collar crime
Traditional street crimes; property crimes are the primary business concern.
Property crime
Involves damage to property. Person crime: Involves injury to a person's body.
Blue-collar examples affecting business
Shoplifting, vandalism, destruction of property.
Probable cause
Known facts would lead a reasonable person to believe an item is contraband, stolen, or evidence of a crime.
Double jeopardy
Fifth Amendment protection; cannot be tried twice for the same offense by the same governmental body.
Good faith exception
Exclusionary rule does not apply when police acted with honest belief their conduct was lawful.
Purpose
Ensure people understand their constitutional rights before deciding whether to speak to law enforcement.
Entrapment
Criminal intent originated with police; defendant cannot be held responsible for mens rea.
Fraud
Use of deception to acquire money or property.