Criminal Law

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Criminal Law consists of rules and regulations created by state and federal government, that define the responsibilities each member of the public has to society. It is commonly referred to as the “Penal Code.” Criminal Procedure refers to the process of carrying out criminal charges. It covers search and seizure matters, arraignment, pleas, discovery, trials and appeals.

Criminal Law is generally divided into two categories – misdemeanors and felonies. A misdemeanor is a lesser crime typically punishable by a fine and potentially up to one year in a local jail. A felony is a serious crime punishable by one year or more in prison or death. Felonies also trigger the right to a public defender if the defendant cannot afford a criminal attorney. The burden of proof to convict a criminal defendant is “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” – a higher standard than a plaintiff’s burden in Civil Court. Other matters covered under criminal law include parole, probation, record sealing and expungement.

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Michael Wechsler
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When a child or a minor commits a crime, he or she enters the criminal justice system. However, the system treats minors differently than adults. Rather than calling the minor a “criminal defendant,” the special term used to describe this young person is a “juvenile delinquent.” The Definition...
Michael Wechsler
4 min read
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11,079
Who is legally considered a juvenile or a "minor" and how does the juvenile court handle crimes committed by minors? What rights does your minor child have if arrested? Definition of a Juvenile or Minor In most states, a person under the age of 18 is considered to be a juvenile or a "minor."...
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