GPSTC Exam 9 (Independent Study) Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

GPSTC Exam 9 (Independent Study) Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What does criminal law primarily regulate? Actions that are considered offences against the state What is the purpose of criminal law? To maintain public order and safety What is a crime? An act or omission that violates the law What is meant by “actus reus”? The physical act of committing a crime What is “mens rea”? The intent or mental state behind a crime Why are both actus reus and mens rea required? To prove criminal responsibility What is probable cause? 2 Reasonable belief that a crime has occurred What is a felony? A serious criminal offence What is a misdemeanor? A less serious criminal offence What is an arrest? The taking of a person into legal custody What is a warrant? A legal document authorising police action Who issues a warrant? A judge or magistrate What is a lawful search? A search permitted by law What does the Fourth Amendment protect? Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures 3 What is reasonable suspicion? A belief based on facts that criminal activity is occurring What is Miranda warning? A statement of rights given to a suspect Why must Miranda rights be read? To protect the suspect’s Fifth Amendment rights What is self-incrimination? Giving evidence against oneself What does due process mean? Fair treatment through the legal system What is double jeopardy? Being tried twice for the same crime What is a confession? An admission of guilt 4 What is an alibi? A claim of being elsewhere when a crime occurred What is probable cause used for? To justify arrests and searches What is an indictment? A formal charge by a grand jury What is a plea bargain? An agreement to plead guilty for a lesser charge What is the burden of proof in criminal cases? Beyond a reasonable doubt What is an arraignment? The first court appearance of the accused What is bail? Money paid for temporary release