Criminal+Defenses

Objectives:

 * identify and describe the types of criminal defenses and how they are used to protect the rights of the accused
 * apply affirmative defenses to different scenarios

Do Now:
Recall a time when you were accused of doing something wrong. Did you feel like you were wrongfully accused? What defense did you give in response?

Lesson:
1. Look at the 6th Amendment that is displayed.
 * What words or phrases stand out to you? Why?
 * Whose rights are protected by this amendment?
 * Is there any overlap between the rights protected here and the rights you describe?
 * Why is the assistance of counsel important for those accused of a crime?
 * What role do defense attorneys play in promoting justice?

2. Read Handout 22 and take 2 column notes on the reading. In your summary, make sure you include the difference between an alibi defense and an affirmative defense. Include examples.

3. Apply what you learned about these different defenses to the assigned scenarios below. Identify the best affirmative defense to the scenario.