Northern Essex Community College

Module 13: Crimes Against Government and Public Order 

Review all module materials and expectations carefully before beginning your work.

Module Overview

This module examines criminal offenses designed to protect public order, government authority, and the lawful functioning of public institutions. Through the assigned readings, you will explore how criminal law regulates conduct such as unlawful assembly, disorderly behavior, and failure to comply with lawful orders, while also considering the constitutional limits that protect lawful protest and expression. These doctrines highlight the balance between maintaining public safety and preserving individual rights.

The learning activities in this module move from statutory application to judicial interpretation. You will begin by analyzing a real world inspired scenario involving unlawful entry and disruption of a government facility, identifying which criminal charges are supported by the facts and which are not. You will then analyze a court decision using the IRAC model, focusing on how courts interpret public order statutes and evaluate collective conduct. Together, these activities strengthen your ability to distinguish criminal behavior from protected activity and to apply criminal law objectively in politically sensitive contexts.

Important: Carefully review all module materials, instructions, and grading expectations before beginning any activity.

Student Learning Outcomes
  • SLO1: Recognize and distinguish different sources of criminal law
  • SLO2: Discuss the criminal trial process and analyze how the process is shaped by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, the judiciary, politics, and the rules of courts
  • SLO4: Read and analyze court cases
What You Will Do
  • Complete assigned readings or instructional materials.
  • Participate in discussions or applied learning activities.
  • Complete written, practical, creative, or problem-based assignments.
  • Review instructor feedback and module expectations.
  • Review all materials carefully before beginning assignments.
  • Follow assignment instructions and grading rubrics closely.
  • Proofread all submissions before posting or uploading.
  • Ask questions early if anything is unclear.