Below you will find introductory information on the basics of criminal law, including a look at how crimes are classified, differences between civil and criminal cases, and how crimes are charged.

Introduction to Criminal Law:
• Criminal Law - The Basics
• What Makes a Case a Criminal Case?
• How to Interpret Criminal Statutes
• How a Defendant's Mental State Affects His or Her Responsibility for a Crime

Crimes and Offenses:
• Criminal Offenses
• Classification of Crimes:
• Felonies
• Misdemeanors
• Infractions
• Implications of a Crime's Classification
• What's the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?
• Crimes A to Z

Criminal Charges:
• How People Get Charged with Crimes
• Common Defenses to Criminal Charges