Explores how a defendant can face a civil action and criminal prosecution for the same act without violating the principle of double jeopardy. For instance, burning down a house can engender criminal prosecution charges and a civil suit from the insurance company. Double jeopardy only applies to criminal actions. (MJP)

Six cases from Rhode Island court history are presented in this document. The cases, dating from the time of Roger Williams to the 1970s, examine religious freedom, personal freedom, treason, robbery, murder, and drug possession. Each case is summarized and questions are supplied to help students understand crime and punishment in Rhode Island. A…

This curriculum unit for citizenship education describes the due process of law as specified in the Constitution, interpreted by the courts, and evolved by practical experience. Its purpose is to inform high school students of their rights so that they may participate more effectively in the U.S. governmental system. It is hoped that the unit…

Designed for use with the student text, "Into Your Hands His Life and Liberty. A Collection of Significant Cases from the Rhode Island Courts," this teachers' guide presents activities, lesson strategies, related activities, court decisions, and additional questions. The cases, dating from Roger Williams to the 1970s, examine religious…

This document consists of a study unit and an accompanying teacher's guide prepared to assist teachers and community groups in discussing some of the legal and constitutional issues raised by the verdict in the Rodney King beating case. The study unit's first section, "Trial and Verdict," examines such issues as the public perceptions of…