POL- Basic Criminal Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

POL- Basic Criminal Law - Essay Example Local rules focus on the conduct that the local community expects people to abide by like speed limits in school zones and noise control at certain hours. If there is ever a conflict in federal law with a state or local rule, federal law will generally control. Most crimes require that you complete an affirmative act before you can be punished for the conduct. If you store drugs in the pocket of your jacket, you affirmatively possess a controlled substance. Some crimes, ironically, punish for omissions. For example, if you are aware that your boyfriend is physically abusing your child, you could be charged for failing to report child abuse. The basis of the crime isn’t what you did, but rather what you failed to do. Many people also assume that crimes are the result of an intentional conduct. Like noted above, if you intentionally had drugs, you could be punished for the intent of your conduct. However, crimes can also involve negligent conduct. For example speeding Most people never really intend to speed. They just (for instance) get caught up in their favorite song and never notice that they are speeding. But regardless of the intent, they are still liable for the speeding ticket. Another crime which has been growing in momentum is using a cell phone while driving. Because of the number of children injured, many states and communities have begun enacting laws which prohibit you  from driving in a school zone while using a cell phone. For instance if you injure a child while going through a school zone and using a cell phone, you could be charged for negligently causing injuries to the child. You did not intend to hurt the child, but because of your negligence, you could still be criminally prosecuted and punished. Crimes also vary by jurisdiction; from state to state and town to town. If you are concerned about whether your conduct, or absence of conduct,