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This module examines how the Constitution limits the power of government to define and enforce criminal laws. While legislatures have broad authority to criminalize conduct, that authority is constrained by constitutional principles designed to protect individual rights and ensure fairness, clarity, and equal treatment under the law. Through the assigned readings, you will explore key constitutional doctrines that shape criminal statutes, including due process, equal protection, judicial review, and standards of scrutiny applied by courts.

The learning activities in this module emphasize both conceptual understanding and practical application. You will begin with a discussion activity that focuses on identifying and explaining the constitutional limit most often applied to obscenity, loitering, and vagrancy statutes. You will then apply these principles in a writing assignment by briefing a constitutional case using the IRAC model, with particular attention to judicial reasoning and outcomes. Together, these activities strengthen your ability to evaluate criminal laws through a constitutional lens and to explain how courts safeguard individual liberties while balancing governmental authority.

• 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.