Criminal Justice Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Criminal Justice Test with our study materials. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Ace your exam confidently!

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The term ___ is defined as offenses that are illegal because laws define them as such.

Mala prohibita
Mala fide
Modus operandi
Mens rea

The correct answer is: Mala prohibita

The term "mala prohibita" refers to offenses that are classified as illegal solely because a law prohibits them, rather than inherently being wrong or immoral. These offenses do not necessarily violate natural law or moral principles but are deemed unlawful due to the existence of specific legal statutes. Examples of mala prohibita offenses include regulatory violations, such as driving without a license or selling alcohol without a permit. In contrast to mala prohibita, terms like "mala in se" refer to acts that are inherently wrong, such as murder or theft, which are considered immoral regardless of the law. "Mala fide" refers to actions done in bad faith or with dishonesty. "Modus operandi" describes the method or pattern of behavior used in committing a crime, and "mens rea" pertains to the mental state or intent of a person when committing an offense. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the field of criminal justice as they help frame discussions around legality, morality, and criminal intent.