Legal System Lesson Plans

Students examine the effects of race in the criminal justice system. As a class, they brainstorm a list of instances when the offender has been an African American and he is not treated fairly in court based on his race. They analyze their own reasons for the preceptions they have about the justice system and participate in a debate on whether the system can be changed to make it fair for all.

Students compare three justice systems currently in place in the United States: the civilian criminal justice system, the military criminal justice system (courts-martial) and the secret wartime tribunals that President Bush has proposed by order.

Students explore their beliefs about objectivity and the United States justice system. They examine the facets of a criminal case by researching various aspects of the judicial system and apply what they have learned to the Michael Jackson trial.

Students define "justice" and discuss the role of justice systems in societies. They examine a Supreme Court case influenced by Judge Blackmun's voice as a justice.

Students investigate several controversial issues in the criminal justice system relating to death row and give oral reports explaining how their issues safeguard or contaminate the issue of fairness in capital punishment. They offer ideas for improvement

Students take a closer look at the rights of British prisoners. In this current events lesson, students research the listed Web sites that include information about the British justice system and voting practices. Students discuss whether or not prisoners should have the right to vote.

Students explore the concept of appeal and analyze its role in the American justice system. By building their understanding of the Microsoft antitrust case and its subsequent appeal, students examine all sides of issue and speculate outcome of the case.

Students define the legal meaning of juvenile and identify various ways to treat young offenders. They identify the current philosophy of the Utah juvenile justice system using a true/false worksheet and discussion format.

Students explore the court cases and legal organizations that were instrumental in creating a system of juvenile justice in the United States, then present their findings in a composite timeline.

Students investigate what happens when someone is arrested. They engage in a mock trial role play about a burglary. They engage in the process of the Criminal Justice System from arrest to sentencing.