Welcome to Module 1

Understanding criminal law begins with knowing its origins, how it has evolved, and its place within the broader U.S. legal system. In this module, you’ll explore the origins of criminal law and the principles that shape it, including the enduring influence of English common law and the role of precedent through stare decisis. You’ll also learn how jurisdiction is structured across federal and state systems, and why this matters in terms of how crimes are defined and prosecuted.

The materials and assignments in this module will give you a foundational understanding of how criminal law is created, interpreted, and applied in real-world contexts. Whether you're new to the subject or bringing prior experience, this first module will anchor your learning in key legal concepts that will guide us throughout the course.

As you work through the readings, presentations, and videos, consider how criminal law reflects deeper ideas about justice, power, and social order. And as you begin participating in discussions and assignments, be ready to think critically about who holds the authority to define crime and why that matters.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Explain the origins and purposes of criminal law in the United States, including the distinctions between criminal and civil law. (CLO 1)
Identify and describe the primary sources of criminal law, including constitutional provisions, statutes, case law, and the principle of stare decisis. (CL0 1 & 5)
Summarize the structure of the U.S. legal system and analyze how jurisdiction affects the adjudication of criminal offenses. (CLO 4 &5)

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

Readings and Presentations:

Chapter 1: The Nature & History of Criminal Law
Chapter 1. pptx

Watch the Videos:

A History of Laws: The Evolution of Laws
Overview of the American Legal System – University of Virginia School of Law
Law Shelf: Overview of Criminal LawLinks to an external site.
The Rule of Law Links to an external site.

Review Assignment Resources:

Assignments/Assessments

Complete the following assignments by the date and time indicated on each assignment page.

Complete Start Here Module and review Course Resources Module.
Connecting Criminal Law to the Criminal Justice System
Module 1 & 2 Assignment Mapping Criminal Law – Legal Foundations, Liability, and Application in Massachusetts

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