Question 1

Which of the following best describes the relationship between crime as presented by the media and crime routinely committed in the United States?

Accepted Answer

The media typically presents more sensational crimes than those routinely committed.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT considered an institution of social control?

Accepted Answer

The stock market

Question 3

Why is criminal justice often considered society’s 'last line of defense' against people who refuse to abide by dominant social values?

Accepted Answer

Because society turns to criminal justice after other institutions of social control have failed.

Question 4

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events in the typical criminal justice process after a crime is reported?

Accepted Answer

Investigation, arrest, booking, charging, initial appearance

Question 5

What is the main difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Accepted Answer

A misdemeanor is a less serious crime, while a felony is a serious crime.

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'jurisdiction' in the criminal justice system?

Accepted Answer

A politically defined geographical area where a particular set of laws applies.

Question 7

What is the primary purpose of a preliminary hearing in felony cases?

Accepted Answer

To determine whether there is probable cause to hold the defendant for trial.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about plea bargaining is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Plea bargaining resolves about 95% of criminal cases.

Question 9

Which of the following is a key feature of the crime control model of criminal justice?

Accepted Answer

Focus on efficiency and quick closure of cases.

Question 10

According to the due process model, what is required for a person to be found guilty of a crime?

Accepted Answer

A finding of both factual and legal guilt through a procedurally regular process.

Question 11

Which of the following is an example of a myth about crime and criminal justice?

Accepted Answer

Guilt or innocence can be determined by trial by ordeal.

Question 12

Which level of government bears most of the costs of criminal justice in the United States?

Accepted Answer

State and local governments

Question 13

What is the main criticism of the media’s portrayal of crime?

Accepted Answer

It overemphasizes sensational crimes, misleading the public about the nature of crime.

Question 14

Which of the following is a possible outcome of an appeal in the criminal justice process?

Accepted Answer

The appellate court can affirm, modify, reverse, or remand the case.

Question 15

Which of the following is a reason why the U.S. criminal justice system is sometimes considered a 'nonsystem'?

Accepted Answer

It is a loose confederation of many independent agencies that often operate independently.

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of a grand jury in the criminal justice process?

Accepted Answer

To decide whether there is probable cause to indict a suspect.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the doctrine of legal guilt?

Accepted Answer

People are guilty only if factual guilt is determined in a procedurally regular fashion, respecting due process rights.

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of how myths about crime can affect the criminal justice system?

Accepted Answer

Myths can contribute to the failure to reduce crime and waste resources.

Question 19

Which of the following is a key difference between the crime control model and the due process model?

Accepted Answer

The crime control model emphasizes efficiency and quick closure, while the due process model emphasizes protecting the innocent and legal rights.

Question 20

In the context of criminal justice, what is 'probable cause'?

Accepted Answer

Trustworthy evidence sufficient to make a reasonable person believe that the proposed action is justified.

Introduction to Criminal Justice: Media, Institutions, and Models of Social Control

Study Guide - Practice Questions