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Learning ResourcesRequired ReadingsHemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2017). Criminal courts: A contemporary perspective (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.
Chapter 6, “Prosecutors” (pp. 155–188)Hemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2016). Criminal Courts: A Contemporary Perspective. Copyright 2016 by Sage Publications, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Sage Publications, Inc., via the Copyright Clearance Center. Hemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2017). Criminal courts: A contemporary perspective (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.
Chapter 7, “Defense Attorneys” (pp. 189–222)Hemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2016). Criminal Courts: A Contemporary Perspective. Copyright 2016 by Sage Publications, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Sage Publications, Inc., via the Copyright Clearance Center. Hemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2017). Criminal courts: A contemporary perspective (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.
Chapter 8, “Judges” (pp. 223–250)Hemmens, C., Brody, D. C., & Spohn, C. (2016). Criminal Courts: A Contemporary Perspective. Copyright 2016 by Sage Publications, Inc. Reprinted by permission of Sage Publications, Inc., via the

Copyright Clearance Center. Criminal Justice Case Studies: Criminal Courts and Judicial Process, Week 3 (PDF)Required MediaSerial Productions (Producer). (2018b). Serial: Pleas baby pleas [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://serialpodcast.org/season-three/5/pleas-bab…Discussion: The JudgeThe judge now commands everyone to be seated. The trial may proceed.But how that trial proceeds may have been decided before anyone entered the room. Was a plea deal reached? Is the judge bound by sentencing guidelines? How much power does the judge really have these days? If the judge’s role has changed, how does it differ from bygone eras or original visions of judicial power? In this Discussion, you consider similar questions.By Day 3Post a response to the following:Despite changes in who holds the most power, explain why the judge receives the most deference.In your response, be sure to incorporate historical influence, institutional practices, and/or political factors to support your position.In your response, you may incorporate professional experience or insights.By Day 5Respond to two colleagues:Choose a response that is different from your own.Explain how your colleague’s position has changed your perception or understanding.