Answer to Question 1
In Latin, juris means law, and diction means to speak.. Jurisdiction literally refers to power to speak the law..
o Before any court can hear a case, it must have jurisdiction over the persons involved in the case or its subject matter.
o Jurisdiction of every court is limited in some way.
o One limitation is geographic. Generally, a court can exercise its authority over residents of a certain area.
o Jurisdiction over subject matter also acts as a limitation on the types of cases a court hears.
Answer to Question 2
o advantages that the government enjoys in legal battles.
Defendants have the right to counsel, the right to a jury trial, and protection from
o self-incrimination, which are all equalizers in the adversarial contest between the state and the individual.
The crime control function of the courts emphasizes punishment and retribution.
The mindset is that criminals must suffer for the harm done to society. The
o courts under this function are not concerned with giving the accused a fair
chance.
The rehabilitative function of the court is also known as the medical model
o because criminals are considered patients and the courts provide treatment.
Treatment can vary from case to case.
The bureaucratic function of the courts is the primary goal because it must deal
o with all cases brought before it. A main concern is speed and efficiency.
