CHP Criminal Law Basics

Question 1

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in California?

Accepted Answer

Felonies are more serious crimes punishable by state prison; misdemeanors carry up to 1 year in county jail

Answer

There is no difference

Answer

Misdemeanors are more serious

Answer

Only felonies result in arrest

Question 2

What is reasonable suspicion?

Accepted Answer

Specific articulable facts suggesting criminal activity, enough to justify a brief investigative stop

Answer

A mere hunch or feeling

Answer

The same as probable cause

Answer

Suspicion based on appearance alone

Question 3

What is the Fourth Amendment protection against?

Accepted Answer

Unreasonable searches and seizures by the government

Answer

All searches regardless of reason

Answer

Only home searches

Answer

Only vehicle searches

Question 4

What is a Terry stop?

Accepted Answer

A brief investigative detention based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity

Answer

A traffic violation

Answer

A full arrest

Answer

A vehicle inspection

Question 5

What Miranda rights must be read before custodial interrogation?

Accepted Answer

The right to remain silent, that statements can be used in court, the right to an attorney, and to have one appointed if unable to afford one

Answer

Only the right to remain silent

Answer

Only the right to an attorney

Answer

Miranda rights are optional

Question 6

What is the chain of custody for evidence?

Accepted Answer

Documentation of who handled evidence, when, and how, from collection to court presentation

Answer

The order in which evidence is found

Answer

A type of evidence storage container

Answer

Only applies to DNA evidence