Lecture Notes on Law Enforcement and Legal Precedents

These flashcards cover key legal concepts and significant legal cases related to law enforcement procedures, rights of suspects, and the use of force.

Stop

A brief detainment for questioning that does not require probable cause, but requires reasonable suspicion.

Reasonable Suspicion

The belief that a crime is being committed, has just been committed, or will be committed, which is necessary to justify a stop.

Terry Stop

A type of stop and frisk established in Terry v. Ohio (1968) where an officer can pat down a suspect for weapons based on reasonable suspicion.

Plain Feel Doctrine

A legal principle that allows an officer to seize contraband discovered during a lawful pat-down for weapons.

5th Amendment

Part of the U.S. Constitution that protects against self-incrimination, ensuring that individuals cannot be forced to testify against themselves.

Miranda Rights

Rights that must be read to a suspect upon arrest, ensuring they are aware of their right to counsel and to remain silent.

Carroll v. United States

A legal case establishing that probable cause is sufficient for searching a motor vehicle without a warrant.

Use of Force

The range of physical power that law enforcement officers are legally allowed to utilize to control a situation, starting just above the level of force displayed by a suspect.

Less Lethal Weapons

Weapons, such as tasers and pepper spray, that are designed to incapacitate a suspect without causing death.

Deadly Force

The use of force by law enforcement that is intended or likely to cause serious bodily harm or death, used only under life-threatening situations.