ed States. Criminal Law Definitions 1. It's important to understand the terms associated with criminal law. Sentencing, or the process of determining how a is based on strict definitions of criminal activities and due process. 2. The first element is Mens Rea which means "a guilty mind". This is an assessment of the 3. Third, in order to convict someone of a crime there has to be proof showing the occurred at the same time. This is called "concurrence". 4. Criminal cases require a much higher burden of proof, because convicted offenders face difficult punishments which may affect the offender's permanent record and in some cases result in being taken away. 5. A felony is a serious offense that is punishable with over a year in jail. When someone is convicted with a felony he or she no longer has -for example, the right to own guns. Challenges to Law Enforcement and Individual Rights 1. The first is the Fourth Amendment which states in order to search or seize an item or person there needs to be either a warrant or 2. In order to be put on trial, a person needs to be indicted or same offense. They are not able to be tried twice for the 3. In order to be put on trial, a person needs to be indicted (or charged with a crime). They are not able to be tried twice for Accompanies Criminal Law History & Development​