Chapter 13: The Criminal Justice System

These flashcards cover key concepts around Texas's criminal justice system, including classifications of crimes, procedures, the death penalty, issues related to racial bias, and reforms in handling offenders.

What is exculpatory evidence?

Evidence that helps a defendant and may exonerate the defendant in a criminal trial.

How does Texas classify criminal offenses?

Crimes are classified as felonies or misdemeanors, with felonies further classified into capital, first degree, second degree, third degree, and state jail felonies.

What is enhanced punishment in Texas law?

Additional penalties for individuals involved in organized crime or repeat offenders, treated as having committed the next higher degree of felony.

What events led to the death penalty's reinstitution in Texas?

The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Furman v. Georgia required Texas to rewrite its death penalty laws to ensure standardization and fairness.

What percentage of Texas's death row inmates are African American?

Approximately 44 percent of death row inmates in Texas are African American, despite making up about 12 percent of the state's population.

What is the Texas Penal Code?

The body of Texas law covering crimes, penalties, and correctional measures.

What are the roles of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ)?

To provide public safety, promote positive behavioral changes, reintegrate offenders, and assist crime victims.

What is a plea bargain?

An agreement between a prosecutor and a defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to a charge in exchange for concessions from the prosecutor.

Why is the issue of racial bias significant in Texas's criminal justice system?

Racial and ethnic minorities are overrepresented in arrests and incarceration rates, which raises concerns about fairness and legitimacy.

What significant change did the 84th Legislature make regarding first-time nonviolent offenders?

First-time offenders can petition to have their criminal records sealed after successful completion of deferred adjudication.

What was the purpose of the James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Act?

To strengthen Texas law against hate crimes by identifying specific target groups at risk.

What is the average time spent on death row in Texas?

Nearly 11 years.

What is recidivism?

Criminal behavior that results in reincarceration after a person has been released from confinement for a prior offense.

What can lead to wrongful convictions in Texas?

Factors include eyewitness misidentification, prosecutorial misconduct, and unreliable forensic evidence.

What is Texas's response to high rates of mental illness among inmates?

Efforts to provide better mental health services and legal protections for mentally ill inmates are ongoing.

What is the purpose of the Texas Crime Victims' Compensation Fund?

To provide financial support for victims and their families for expenses related to crimes.

What is administrative segregation?

Commonly referred to as solitary confinement, it isolates an inmate in a separate cell as punishment typically for violent or disruptive behavior.