Criminal Law I Course Description - LAWN617

3 Credits

This course examines substantive criminal law both in its common law and modern statutory forms. Topics covered include culpability required for criminal responsibility (minimum conduct, voluntariness, etc.); exculpatory doctrines and defenses (duress, insanity, mistake, etc.); homicide, rape, and other criminal acts; and domestic violence. The course also explores the problems associated with imposition of criminal sanctions, as well as reasons for and appropriateness of particular punishments, including the death penalty. (Required.)