Chapter 3 Video Case: Affluenza Defense in Teenage Drunk Driving Case: Discussion Questions

1. Do you agree or disagree with the sentence that the teenager was given for the deaths of four people? Why or why not?

2. What solutions can you think of that could increase the moral duty of reporting drunk drivers?

Chapter 3 You Decide Part II - Justify Your Choices: The Bystander

1. The central issue in The Bystander revolves around the elements of criminal liability and, in particular, actus reus. Explain your choices in this scenario by addressing the following questions:

What is the concept of a voluntary act, and why is it so important to criminal law? When is an act not voluntary? Do you think Tom's act was voluntary? Why or why not?

2. How are status, criminal omissions, and possession related to the voluntary act requirement of criminal liability? Explain using examples from this scenario.