Introduction to Criminal Law

        -As we know from the last unit, in order for an act (or omission) to be a crime, they have to have “means rea”

                -Person’s state of mind

                        -Handout (definitions)

                        -Motive is NOT the same thing

                        -Some crimes are “strict liability” offenses

                                -Selling alcohol to minors

Considerations

        -There are certain “elements” to each crime

                -Example: Robbery

                        -Taking and carrying away of goods/money

                        -Taking from someone

                        -Use or threat of use of force

        -Every part of crime must be proven to be found guilty

        -Problem 8.1

Parties to Crimes

        -PrincipalàOne who commits the crime

        -AccompliceàOne who helps the principal commit a crime

                -May be charged with same crime as principal

        -Accessory before the actàOne who orders a crime, or one who helps principal before the crime occurs

        -Accessory after the factàone who knows the crime occurred and helps the principal avoid justice

        -Problem 8.2

Crimes of Omission

        -As we know from the definition of a crime, one can commit a crime by NOT doing something

                -Failing to pay/report income taxes

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