Free Online Direito Penal Courses

1. Introduction to Criminal Law

Although this course focuses on the UK, it still offers an excellent general grounding in the principles of criminal law, especially what different legal terms mean and what different role players do.

2. Understanding the Criminal Laws in the UK

Again, this course is based on the UK criminal justice system but offers an excellent breakdown of different types of crimes and how the prosecution, trial and sentencing processes work.

3. Criminology and Criminal Justice Fundamentals

Once you have decided that criminal law interests you, opt for this course for an exploration of what drives people to commit crimes and an explanation of the history of criminology and the evolution of the overall criminal justice system.

Although different countries and justice systems may have slightly different definitions, ‘criminal law’ generally refers to punishing individuals or offenders for the crimes they commit. By contrast, ‘civil law’ refers to disputes between individuals or organisations. Criminal law will be judged differently and have different outcomes such as incarceration, for example. It may also be that the state or government decides what constitutes a ‘crime’ and the repercussions. 

Criminal law is severe as you may be dealing with victims of murder and their families, as well as other crimes such as rape or abuse. The highest court in the land often adjudicates it, and verdicts must be thoroughly considered, especially if capital punishment (the death penalty) is administered.

Lawyers, attorneys, barristers, prosecutors or advocates are just one part of the system. They rely on many other people in order to defend or prosecute those accused of a crime, such as:

1. Basics of Solicitors

A solicitor is someone who gives expert legal advice and makes suggestions on how their client may proceed when faced with a question of law. They also take instructions from their clients and act on their behalf.

2. Becoming a Paralegal

Paralegals are often the administrative and research backbones of a law firm as they help lawyers prepare cases. They can also provide legal advice and assistance to clients.

3. Legal Office Administration

A paper trail or record of documentation is vital in a law practice. This course explains various contracts and other legal documents, and looks into common actions like filing for bankruptcy.