Question

Part A - Look up your state's Penal or Criminal Code and familiarize yourself with some of the crimes listed there. List ten crimes considered felonies. Briefly define each. What are the penalties for these crimes? (two paragraphs) List ten crimes considered misdemeanors. Briefly define each. What are the penalties for these crimes? (two paragraphs) In your opinion, do these penalties seem fair or reasonable? Do you feel any of these crimes failed to address some important point in the definition of the crime? (one to two paragraphs)

Part B - Create your own law, codifying a crime (for example, you might consider the issue brought up in this lesson about the lack of laws regarding cyberbullying). Use the laws you looked up in Part A to provide you with some guidance. (one to two paragraphs)

Explain the importance of creating this law and identify the impact you believe it will have on society. (one to two paragraphs).

Answer 1

Part A: Felonies in my state include murder, robbery, and drug trafficking, carrying penalties such as imprisonment and fines. Misdemeanors encompass offenses like petty theft and disorderly conduct, resulting in lighter penalties like fines or short-term imprisonment.

Part B: I propose a law criminalizing cyberbullying to protect individuals from online harassment, promote responsible digital behavior, and create a safer online environment, potentially preventing severe psychological harm caused by cyberbullying incidents.

Step-by-step explanation:

Part A: In my state's penal code, felonies encompass severe crimes like murder, robbery, and drug trafficking, carrying penalties that reflect the gravity of the offense, including lengthy imprisonment or even capital punishment for murder in certain cases. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, include less serious offenses like petty theft and disorderly conduct, leading to lighter penalties such as fines or short-term imprisonment. Evaluating the fairness of these penalties is subjective and often depends on societal norms, the severity of the crime, and the context. However, in some cases, there might be debates about whether specific penalties are proportionate to the offense committed.

Part B: The proposed law addressing cyberbullying aims to fill the gap in current legislation, recognizing the harmful impact of online harassment on mental health and well-being. By defining and penalizing cyberbullying, this law intends to deter such behavior, protect individuals, especially minors, and encourage responsible online conduct. Its impact on society could be profound, fostering a safer online environment, reducing the prevalence of cyberbullying incidents, and promoting digital interactions built on respect and civility. Additionally, it would provide legal recourse for victims and potentially prevent tragic outcomes associated with severe cases of cyberbullying.