In this episode, we review the essentials of Criminal Law — from core principles to major defenses — to help you ace your final.Part 1 – Foundations of Criminal LawFelonies vs. Misdemeanors: Based on possible sentence length.Sources: Common law, statutes, and the MPC.Limits:Rule of Lenity – ambiguity favors defendant.Ex Post Facto – no retroactive punishment.Purposes of Punishment: Deterrence, Retribution, Rehabilitation, Incapacitation.Part 2 – Core Elements of CrimeActus Reus: Voluntary act or omission with legal duty.Mens Rea: Guilty mind — purposely, knowingly, recklessly, negligently.Strict Liability: No intent required (e.g., statutory rape).Mistakes:Fact = may negate intent.Law = generally no defense. 📍 TN follows MPC intent standards.Part 3 – Major CrimesHomicide:CL – malice aforethought.MPC – by intent level.📍 TN – 1st (premeditated), 2nd (knowing), Manslaughter (heat of passion).Rape: Non-consensual penetration; aggravated with weapon or injury.Theft/Robbery/Burglary: Unlawful taking → with force → with entry + intent.Assault: Attempted battery or reasonable fear; aggravated with weapon or serious injury.Part 4 – Inchoate OffensesSolicitation: Urging another to commit crime.Conspiracy: Agreement + overt act.Attempt: Intent + substantial step. 🧠 MPC merges inchoate crimes; CL often does not.Part 5 – DefensesDuress: Coerced by imminent threat (not for murder).Necessity: Prevents greater harm.Self-Defense: Reasonable belief of imminent unlawful force.Insanity: M’Naghten Rule — didn’t know act was wrong. 📍 TN uses M’Naghten standard.🎯 Takeaway: Criminal Law = Act + Intent + Causation − Defense. Spot the elements, apply the right intent, and test each defense.🎧 Listen to The American Law Café for more exam-ready recaps.#CriminalLaw #LawSchool #BarPrep #MensRea #ActusReus #AmericanLawCafe #TennesseeLaw #1L #FinalReview Introductory Music for American Law Cafe. In Jazz Short by moodmode / Vlad Krotov.  Support the show 🎶 Intro Music: "In Jazz Short" by moodmode / Vlad Krotov 📚 Content Created by Heather Mora 🎙️ Hosted on Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429305