Revised 08/2018
ADJ 227 - Constitutional Law for Justice Personnel (3 CR.)
Course Description
Surveys the basic guarantees of liberty described in the U.S. constitution and the historical development of these restrictions on government power, primarily through U.S. Supreme Court decisions. Reviews rights of free speech, press, assembly, as well as criminal procedure guarantees (to counsel, jury trial, habeas corpus, etc.) as they apply to the activities of those in the criminal justice system. Lecture 3 hours per week.
General Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with in-depth examination of that portion of constitutional law which deals with restrictions on governmental power and the protection of individual liberties.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
None.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the student should have:
- describe the importance of the American constitution in the protection of individual liberties.
- assess various supreme court decisions on constitutional issues.
- describe due process rights for individuals and entities.
Major Topics to Be Included
- explore constitutional amendments and the impact on law enforcement
- identify criminal procedures and due process rights
- explain limitations against federal, state, and private sectors
- discuss equality under the law
- discuss various court rulings and the constitutional impact
- define and discuss retroactive legislation
- review search and seizure rulings related to law enforcement
- explain the difference between criminal and civil law
- understand the differences between the branches of government
Optional Topics
Related topics at the discretion of the instructor