NCJ Number
89282
Date Published
1980
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This chapter in a book informing laypersons about legal concepts, laws, and procedures, deals with civil and criminal procedures and offenses.
Abstract
The chapter opens with a discussion of access to the courts, including through self-representation, and then explains the nature of criminal law. Advice is also provided for the person who participates in the criminal justice system as a defendant, as information is provided on what to do if arrested, rights during jeopardy, avoiding incrimination, bail, arraignment, and various constitutional rights. Small claims and traffic court processing are also explained. Various offenses against persons and property are explained, as well as offenses against order and decency, gambling, and miscellaneous offenses. Sections are also devoted to laws bearing upon the owning of firearms and capital punishment. Sections on civil proceedings and civil law open with an explanation of torts, followed by a discussion of various types of civil liability and related issues, such as consumer warranties, general damages, automobile cases, negligence, health and safety. Laws and proceedings bearing upon domestic relations are also discussed, as well as issues associated with employment, such as workers compensation, garnishment of wages, and State labor laws.