Criminal Law & Procedures Flashcards

Under Terry v. Ohio, an officer may conduct a brief investigative stop based on what standard?

Answer: Reasonable articulable suspicion

Terry v. Ohio established that officers may conduct brief investigative stops based on reasonable articulable suspicion of criminal activity.

In Pennsylvania, which crime involves the unlawful taking of another's property from their person by force or threat?

Answer: Robbery

Robbery is defined as theft committed by force, threat, or placing the victim in fear of immediate bodily injury.

Which Miranda warning informs a suspect about the right to appointed counsel?

Answer: If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you

The warning that an attorney will be appointed if the suspect cannot afford one is a distinct and required component of the Miranda advisement.

A person who assists another in committing a crime AFTER the crime is completed is best described as:

Answer: An accessory after the fact

An accessory after the fact knowingly assists a felon after the crime has been completed, such as by helping them flee or hide.

What doctrine permits an officer to seize contraband observed in plain view during a lawful presence?

Answer: The plain view doctrine

The plain view doctrine allows officers to seize evidence or contraband that is immediately apparent as incriminating when observed from a lawful vantage point.

In Pennsylvania, what is the minimum mental state required for criminal homicide?

Answer: Negligently

Under Pennsylvania law, criminal homicide requires at minimum a negligent mental state; the specific grade depends on a higher mental state.

The 'knock and announce' rule generally requires officers serving a warrant to do what before forcible entry?

Answer: Announce their identity and purpose and wait a reasonable time

The knock and announce rule requires officers to identify themselves and state their purpose, then wait a reasonable time for a response before making a forcible entry.