Does the Texas penalty structure provide too much discretion to the judge and jury in sentencing a criminal offender?
What will be an ideal response?
• Student may argue that every case is factually different and the sentencing authority needs discretion to accomplish its particular sentencing goals.
• Students may argue that every offender is different and the sentencing authority needs discretion to fit the penalty to the person, particularly if rehabilitation is the primary goal.
• Students may argue that a wide sentencing range gives prosecutors leverage for plea bargaining.
• Students may argue that specific sentences would have a greater deterrent effect, using the death penalty argument as an example.
• Students may observe that Texas has a history of harsh sentences but rather generous use of probation and parole.
• Students may raise the basic issue of how well the sentencing structure accomplishes the traditional goals of the criminal law discussed in Chapter 1.
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Indicate whether the statement is true or false.
What is a Necessary attendant circumstances?
What will be an ideal response?
The first level of courts in the federal system is the ______.
a. U.S. Supreme Court b. U.S. Circuit Courts c. U.S. District Courts d. U.S. Magistrates Courts
Which communication barrier is best described by the phrase "people hear what they want to hear"?
a. denial of contrary information b. use of personalized meanings c. preconceived ideas d. lack of motivation or interest