CRIM 1100 Chapter Notes - Chapter 7: General Jurisdiction, Formal Charge, Nolle Prosequi

• School: Northeastern University
• Department: Criminal Justice
• Course: CRIM 1100
• Professor: Monteiro Carlos

Document Summary

Adversarial process: lawyers for each side represent their clients" best interests in presenting evidence and formulating arguments as a means to discover the truth and protect the rights of defendants. Inquisitorial process: judge takes an active role in investigating the case and examining evidence by, for example, questioning witnesses. Jurisdiction: the geographic territory or legal boundaries within which control may be exercised; the range of a court"s authority. Courts serve a norm enforcement function for society. Also handle dispute processing for society, as well as policy making. 3 level of courts: trial courts of limited jurisdiction. Handle misdemeanors, lawsuits (minor) and preliminary matters in felony matters: trial courts of general jurisdiction. Criminal courts with jurisdiction over all offenses: appellate courts. Courts that do not try criminal cases but hear appeals of decisions of lower courts (ie errors by police/trial court)