Law Enforcement in the 21st Century: Key Concepts

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from law enforcement and constitutional law.

Criminal Law

The body of rules that defines conduct prohibited by the government.

Constitutional Law

Law that protects citizens against violations of their civil rights and liberties.

Civil Rights

Rights of citizens not to have their legitimate interests interfered with by the government.

Civil Liberties

Individual's freedom to act in pursuit of their interests without government interference.

Police Responsibility

Police are frontline agents of the law and responsible for protecting civil rights and liberties.

Order of Authority

The hierarchy of laws where the U.S. Constitution is the ultimate law followed by state and local laws.

Judicial Review

The power to overturn lower-level legislation by courts.

First Amendment

Protects freedoms including religion, speech, assembly, and petition.

Second Amendment

Rights of individuals to keep and bear arms.

Fourth Amendment

Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Fifth Amendment

Includes rights related to due process, self-incrimination, and double jeopardy.

Sixth Amendment

Guarantees the right to a speedy trial and legal counsel.

Eighth Amendment

Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.

Tenth Amendment

Reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states.

Fourteenth Amendment

Incorporates equal protection under the law, originally intended to protect newly freed slaves.

Actus Reus

The act or omission that constitutes a crime.

Mens Rea

The mental state or intent to commit a crime.

Torts

Civil wrongs against a person that may result in legal liability.

Due Process

The legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person.

Clear and Present Danger Doctrine

A legal standard to determine when speech can be limited.