Weely Discussion Questions

All crimes have two essential elements: (1) the physical act or omission (i.e., actus reus) and (2) a mental requirement known as criminal intent or purpose (i.e., mens rea).

Compare and contrast the required elements of liability as an aider and abettor in the commission of a crime versus the required elements of criminal liability under the common design or plan. Provide one (1) example of each liability in question to support your response.

Discuss the ages at which a child may be held responsible for violation of a criminal law.

Distinguish between the method of imposing criminal liability upon a child under age seven (7) and a child of age fourteen (14). Include one (1) example of each method to support your response.

Compare and contrast the methods that states use within their selection process for judges, and specify the selection criteria that each state that you reviewed have in common. Provide specific examples to support your rationale.

Identify at least two (2) risks associated with selecting judges via a non-partisan election process. Explain the key reasons why you believe each risk could potentially inhibit the fairness of trials. Provide specific examples to support your rationale. 

discuss the selection process for a federal judge nominee, including the background checks, senatorial courtesy, the confirmation process, and the assumption of office. Specify which influences you believe are the most persuasive in the final selection of a judge. Provide a rationale for your response.

Judge John Doe, a judge in your state, has recently had charges of ethical misconduct brought against him. Analyze three (3) steps that a judicial review board in your state (Virginia) would likely take, based on the current judge removal process for your state. Provide a rationale for your response.