Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This course is designed to provide a broad overview of State and Federal Constitutional Law as well as statutory law created by the legislature. Information will be provided concerning various stages of criminal justice procedures such as bail, plea bargaining, pretrial hearings, diversion and post-conviction remedies such as habeas corpus and appeals.
Students will be provided with an insight into the criticisms and politics of the participants in the criminal justice system; expression of student opinions will be encouraged. This course is designed primarily for those interested in the practice of criminal justice as a career as well as students interested in the further study of law - including the possibility of attending law school.
This course is a requirement for completing a degree in Criminal Justice at Portland Community College. Course work may include, but is not limited to, the use of texts and journal articles, lecture, group discussions and activities, videos, guest speakers, field trips, community volunteer work and student presentations.

1. Observe and participate in the legal system with an understanding of the courts and the roles of the different parties involved.

2. Analyze cases prior to and during trial with a basic knowledge of where the case stands and procedures to be followed.

3. Recognize the potential impacts of the media, politics, the economy and more on the decisions made in the criminal justice system.

Examinations, written assignments and projects.

This course will address topics including, but not limited to:
 

• Procedures following arrest
• The criminal court process
• Roles and functions of judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys
• Pretrial procedures such as plea bargaining and motions
• The criminal trial, including jury selection (voir dire)
• History of punishment
• Goals of punishment
• Criminal sanctions (sentencing)