Course Title
Criminal Evidence
Course Description
This course provides a thorough study of the evidence rules, with specific emphasis on the application of these rules in preparing and presenting evidence. This includes a discussion of the history and approach to the study of evidence; proof by evidence and substitutes; general 196 admissibility tests, including relevancy and materiality; opinion and expert testimony, and hearsay rule; evidence by way of witness testimony, documents, scientific and real evidence; and exclusion of evidence on constitutional grounds. For better understanding of the evidence rules, judicial decisions are cited and some are included in Part II of the required text. This is a Criminal Justice upper level Elective course.
Pass/Fail Only?
No
Faculty Permission Required?
No
Credit Hours Min
3
Instructional Method
Lecture
Completion requirement
CRJS_110 AND CRJS_320
Name
Learning Objective 1
Objective
Demonstrate a functional and working knowledge of criminal evidence;
Name
Learning Objective 2
Objective
Identify the general differences between the federal system of criminal justice and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvanias and identify the varying standards of proof utilized in our legal systems.
Name
Learning Objective 3
Objective
Understand the fundamental constitutional principles of criminal evidence, including a working knowledge of the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Amendments as they apply particularly to searches and seizures, arrests and confessions. This is necessary because much of the evidence utilized in criminal law is derived from application of these concepts and procedures. The student will be able to understand the meaning of probable cause, and the heightened standard of proof necessary in criminal law. Also, students will be taught the types of evidence that may be admitted at trial and the rules governing their admissibility. A detailed review of witness testimony will be undertaken. Students will be exposed to methods of witness examination including direct and cross-examination. Students will be challenged to answer questions such as - Does a criminal defendant have to testify? What if he/she does not? Is police officer testimony more inherently believable than lay witness testimony? Whats the difference between expert testimony and lay witness testimony? What is hearsay evidence? The class will also explore rules of evidence regarding admissibility of exhibits including exhibits pertaining to direct and circumstantial evidence. Does the law value one over the other? What is demonstrative evidence? When and how can it be used?
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Learning Objective 4
Objective
Finally, understand the process of the criminal trial, including tactics and strategies regarding admission of evidence through witness testimony and/or use of exhibits. To illustrate these points, past criminal cases will be referenced and the students may be called upon to participate in segments of a mock criminal trial.