FBI Legal and Constitutional Knowledge Flashcards

What is 'entrapment' as a legal defense in FBI sting operations?

Answer: When government agents induce a person to commit a crime they would not otherwise have committed

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they were not predisposed to commit, which can be a complete defense.

What is the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine?

Answer: Evidence derived from an illegal search or seizure is also inadmissible in court

This doctrine extends the Exclusionary Rule to evidence discovered as a result of an initial illegal government action.

What federal law governs the FBI's authority to investigate domestic terrorism?

Answer: 18 U.S.C. § 2331 and related statutes under Chapter 113B

Domestic terrorism is defined and governed primarily by 18 U.S.C. § 2331 and related statutes in Chapter 113B of the federal criminal code.

What is the purpose of a federal 'grand jury' in the context of an FBI investigation?

Answer: To determine if sufficient evidence exists to formally charge a suspect with a federal crime

A federal grand jury reviews evidence presented by prosecutors to decide whether probable cause exists to issue an indictment.

Which amendment prohibits the government from taking private property for public use without just compensation?

Answer: Fifth Amendment (Takings Clause)

The Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment requires the government to pay fair market value when it seizes private property.

What legal protection does attorney-client privilege provide in an FBI investigation?

Answer: Confidential communications between a client and their attorney generally cannot be compelled as evidence

Attorney-client privilege protects confidential legal communications from being disclosed during investigations or legal proceedings.