PSC 322LEC—Criminal Process II: Bail to Jail

This course covers the procedures that govern criminal cases after the initiation of formal legal proceedings. We will learn about trials, trial related issues (such as the charging process, discovery, jury selection, and verdicts), and plea bargaining as a substitute for trials. We will also learn about post trial appellate and habeas corpus review of criminal cases. We will give special attention to the right to counsel, and the meaning of the phrase, due process of law. Cases on the constitutionality and implementation of capital punishment will also be covered. We will emphasize the role of the U.S. Constitution, as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court, in regulating criminal procedures. PLEASE NOTE that this course may be taken independently of Criminal Process I: The Investigation neither course is a prerequisite for the other one.