Court Systems and Practices Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

CRIJ-1306-001 Court Systems and Practices

Prerequisites

Course Description

This course is a study of the court system as it applies to the structures, procedures, practices and sources of law in American courts, using federal and Texas statutes and case law.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

America's Courts & Criminal Justice System, 14th Ed by David Neubauer, ISBN 0357763289

The required textbook listed above will be used extensively throughout the semester, so it’s essential that you have a copy by the first day of class. Please plan ahead to ensure you receive it on time.

You can purchase your textbook in one of the following ways:

In Person| Visit the Amarillo College Bookstore, located in the College Union Building (CUB) on the Washington Street Campus at 24th and Jackson.

              Phone: (806) 371-5304|Email: bookstore@actx.edu| Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

              The bookstore also offers extended hours at the beginning and end of each semester.

Important: Keep your receipt for all purchases made at the college bookstore. Exchanges or returns cannot be processed without it.

Online|  You may order your textbook online through the Amarillo College Bookstore or from another reputable online vendor.

The ISBN's for the required textbook are provided to help you order the correct edition. If purchasing online, double-check that you’ve selected the right edition and allow sufficient time for delivery so your book arrives before class begins.

Note: You do not need to purchase any access codes for this course.

Supplies

Upon enrolling in this class you must have access to a working computer, active and functioning internet service, some type of word processing program and exhibit computer competency.

GOOGLE Apps

You should utilize your Google Apps for completing course assignments. To access your Google Apps follow the steps listed below:

Step 1| Log onto AC Connect.

Step 2| Scroll down and under the AC apps & email box, click on the Google Apps link and you will see the links for all of the Google apps. 

Step 3| Choose the appropriate app needed. As a helpful hint, you’ll use “Docs” to write your discussion posts and other written assignments and “Slides” for your introduction assignment as well as your class project presentations (if applicable).   

Assistance with Computer Access

If you don’t have a computer, you may access the computers at the AC Library on the 4th floor of the WARE Building. Click on the link to access phone numbers, hours of operation and locations for all Amarillo College libraries and computing centers: https://www.actx.edu/library/.

The Amarillo College Bookstore has a laptop rental program. Contact them to find out more information about the requirements and terms of the program.

You may access the course on your phone or tablet, but be aware some of the functions may not work exactly as they should. Make sure you download the Amarillo College app as well. 

Amarillo College Writers Corner

The Writer’s Corner is an excellent resource available to you for assistance in the writing needs of the course. You can access additional information at:

 https://www.actx.edu/successcenters/writerscorner

Email: writerscorner@actx.edu|Phone: 345-5580| Location:  Ordway Hall, Room 102

Student Performance

Student performance addresses the knowledge and skills you should have gained upon completion of this course with an overall final course average of 70% or above. To that end, there are general course learning outcomes (listed below) and more specific unit learning outcomes for this course.  The weekly learning outcomes are listed on the applicable unit action plan.

1. Describe the American judicial systems (civil, criminal, and juvenile), their jurisdiction, development and structure.

2. Analyze the function and dynamics of the courtroom work group.

3. Identify judicial processes from pretrial to appeal.

4. Describe the significant Constitutional Amendments, doctrines, and other sources of law in the American judicial system.

This progression of this course will be guided by meeting both the weekly course learning outcomes and the general course learning outcomes. At the conclusion of the semester you’re expected to have a basic understanding of the key issues relevant to the American judicial system and the essential elements therein.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Course Workload and Preparation

You should approach this course with a mindset where you’re ready to learn.

The workload for this course will require due diligence and integrity on your part. You are responsible for ensuring you understand all requirements of the course, have access to necessary supplies and complete assignments accordingly.

I’ve found students who do well in my classes generally ascribe to the following practices:

1. Log into the class on a regular basis (at least 3-4 times per week) to check for class announcements/emails/messages regarding upcoming assignments and other important information.

2. Respond to requests from me in a timely manner. 

3. Have a consistent plan or approach for completing reading/preparation and assignments for the course.

4. Complete all readings and course preparation as assigned. This is imperative for successful completion of the course. 

5. Highlight the textbook or take notes as they complete reading assignments to help prepare for written assignments, quizzes and/or exams.

6. Reach out to me in a timely fashion with regards to questions or problems with the class.

7. Take full advantage of all the resources provided within the course. 

8. Complete and correctly submit all assignments in a timely manner and be cognizant of all relevant due dates.  

Discussion Forums/Communication

Effective learning happens best in a safe, inclusive space where all of us feel comfortable sharing and considering different perspectives. Throughout the semester, I encourage you to honor the uniqueness of your classmates and appreciate the opportunity we have to learn from one another.

Some discussion topics may touch on sensitive or uncomfortable subjects. It’s important that we approach these conversations with respect and courtesy at all times. You are always entitled to your own opinions and are never required to agree with others; however, disagreements must be expressed in a thoughtful, respectful, and considerate manner.

Snide remarks, demeaning comments, personal attacks, inappropriate language, or racial slurs will not be tolerated in any setting, whether in discussions, written coursework, or email communication.

Only students who are officially registered in the course may post on discussion boards, send messages within the course, or complete assignments. Work submitted and participation in course activities must come solely from the enrolled student.

If at any point you feel concerned, uncomfortable, or offended by course materials or by something posted in the discussion board, please contact me immediately. All materials, both required and supplemental, have been carefully selected to support the learning process and help you meet the course objectives.

Please refer to the Office Hours section for details about how to contact me regarding course communication.

Scholastic Integrity

Scholastic honesty is not only assumed, but required of all students in all coursework and exams as they relate to this course. I maintain a zero-tolerance policy with regards to scholastic dishonesty. Instances of scholastic dishonesty will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and will result in a grade of zero for the applicable assignment(s) and/or removal from the course. 

Scholastic dishonesty is defined in the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…shall include, but not be limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.” Determinations of scholastic dishonesty may be substantiated if a student engages in any of the following behaviors:

1. Have someone else complete assignments or exams for you, or act as a substitute for another student in any assignment or exam.

2. Use unauthorized help or collaborate improperly on assignments or exams in a way that does not reflect your own work. This includes “collusion,” which is defined by the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Students should not work together on assignments unless specifically instructed.

3. Give excessive help to other students on assignments or exams. This includes using or sharing camera phones, text messages, photocopies, notes, or other materials without permission.

4. Plagiarize, which is defined in the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…the appropriating, buying, receiving as a gift, or obtaining by any means another’s work and the unacknowledged submission or incorporation of it in one’s own written work.”

5. Use information from the Internet or other sources without proper citation. Full and accurate credit must be given for any ideas or materials taken from others.

6. Allow someone else to submit your work for an assignment or exam.

7. Claim credit for work done by another student.

What Can You Expect from ME?

I am here to support your learning every step of the way. I will answer questions promptly, grade fairly and objectively, and provide helpful feedback on assignments when appropriate (see the Grading Criteria section for details). I will also maintain regular office hours and treat each student with the respect and consideration I would hope to receive myself. My goal is to create a positive learning environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

Grading Criteria

All coursework, assignments, and learning experiences in this course are directly related to both the general course and unit outcomes and are meant to assist you in mastering course content while assessing the level of your learning.  Each assignment will have the specific learning outcomes to be met listed within the instructions. 

Your grade for this course will be comprised of the following percentages and types of assignments:

Assignment Deadlines

It’s imperative for you to learn how to manage your course workload, assignments, and time for future success in a real-world environment. Due dates for the entire semester will be listed on the course calendar from the first day of class.  I reserve the right to make determinations regarding acceptance of late assignments on a case-by-case basis.  

Unless otherwise noted, all assignments, quizzes, and exams will be due no later than 11:59 p.m. on the specified date, as referenced on the calendar.

If there’s a valid emergency or circumstance beyond your control, you may contact me prior to the due date of the assignment(s) to discuss your options and any potential late penalties that may be applied.  

It is your responsibility to ensure you have access to a working computer and functioning internet service to access the course and submit your assignments. DO NOT wait until the last minute to complete your assignments. 

Forgetting to do an assignment or having an internet malfunction at the last minute are NOT sufficient excuses for submitting an assignment late. Please understand this policy is present and adhered to in the interest of fairness to all students in the class.

Grading of Assignments

You can access your grades at any time by clicking on the Gradebook link under the options bar at the top of the course site.

Written work and discussion assignment grades will be available as soon as possible after the due date of the respective assignment. Grades will be based on format, the student’s compliance with all assignment requirements, accuracy, and comprehensiveness of answers. A rubric will be provided for all written and discussion assignments. The time frame for the posting of grades is tentative.  There will be occasions when it will take longer to post the grades.

You should understand that minimal work will receive a minimal grade.  Don’t assume just because you completed the minimum requirements for the assignment, you will receive a perfect score. General feedback will be given on the first assignments. However, due to the number of students and workload, feedback on subsequent assignments will be limited to citing incorrect answers, etc., or explaining why a grade is extremely low (below 70).  

You can always check your current class average so you know where you stand. If you have any questions regarding your grades, you are encouraged to contact me sooner rather than later.  

Final Course Grade Assignment (Grading Schema)

Final letter grades in the course will be assigned utilizing the schema listed below. Unless otherwise noted, there will be no exceptions to this schema made by the professor. Grades are not negotiable. Your final course grade will be based on your work in the course.

 A:  90-100| B:  80-89| C:  70-79| D:  60-69| F:  59 and below

Attendance

REGULAR ATTENDANCE IS NECESSARY FOR SATISFACTORY ACHIEVEMENT IN THIS CLASS. THEREFORE, IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ATTEND CLASS, EVEN IN AN ONLINE SETTING.

Consistent and adequate involvement in an online class is necessary for satisfactory completion. Therefore, it is your responsibility to check course postings, messages  and/or  emails on a daily basis, follow the prescribed timeline for assignments and exams, etc. If you’re having difficulty with any portion of this course, you should contact me via message/email, text, phone, or in person, immediately.

Additional Information Regarding Withdrawals

Per Amarillo College guidelines, students must receive approval from the instructor to withdraw from the course after the census date. The last day to withdraw from a class is listed on the course calendar (on the class site) and on Amarillo College’s master calendar site.

If a student wishes to withdraw from the course they must complete the following steps:

1. Print out the Administrative Withdrawal Request form and complete it. This form can be obtained from the Registrar’s office or via the link in the course syllabus. Please note the form requires your advisor’s signature, in addition to my signature.

2. Contact me PRIOR TO 12:00 PM NOON on the last day to withdraw to discuss the withdrawal. I  will advise a time and date where you can call or schedule an appointment to discuss the withdrawal. Withdrawal requests will NOT be approved by me without either a face-to-face visit, email/message and/or telephone conversation.

3. Don’t assume that because you’ve sent an email to me you will be withdrawn from the course. Once I have made a decision on the withdrawal, you will be notified.

4. Every effort will be made to ensure student success is a priority before withdrawals are approved.

Failure to drop or withdraw the course within a timely manner will result in you receiving a performance grade, usually an “F”.

Calendar

Additional Information

This section contains important and helpful information on a variety of topics related to the class.  

Accessing Course Information

You should log onto the course as early as possible on the FIRST DAY of the semester. This course will progress quickly and the first assignment is due within days of the course beginning. 

Tutoring/Assistance with Course 

It is my goal  to support each student’s goals for success by providing additional academic support services to those in need. If your cumulative grade average for this course falls below a 70, you will be strongly encouraged to access tutoring and other academic resources the instructor feels is appropriate. 

Any student needing assistance with any aspect of the course content should contact their instructor to schedule a tutoring session. Tutoring sessions are offered at no charge and can be conducted on campus or via telephone. Arrangements can be made to schedule a time that is convenient for the student.

Student Academic Help/ Student Resources

There are a variety of resources available to help students with issues they may be experiencing throughout the semester. You are encouraged to contact your instructor with any questions or problems you might have while taking the course. In addition, you may access many of the various student resources at: https://www.actx.edu/student-resources.

Reproduction of Course Materials

Students are prohibited from reproducing any portion of this class without written permission from the instructor of record or authorization through Disability Services. This includes, but is not limited to, lecture notes, class discussion boards or any other class materials. For purposes of the policy herein, “reproducing” applies to photographic reproduction, audio, video, or any other type of reproduction of course materials.

Students who create and/or share an unauthorized reproduction of course materials via any means, including social media, are violating an instructor's intellectual property rights and could potentially be subjected to disciplinary actions under the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct. Additionally, should any reproduction be shown of proprietary materials, the student who created or shared the unauthorized reproduction may also be subject to copyright laws.

Extra-Credit Opportunities

Determinations regarding whether or not extra-credit opportunities will be afforded to students is at the discretion of the instructor. In the event an option for extra-credit is offered by the instructor, comprehensive guidelines and information will be provided to the student. Students are not required to participate in extra-credit opportunities.

Student Complaints or Issues 

A complaint is an allegation of improper, unfair, arbitrary or discriminatory treatment by college personnel. Students should attempt to resolve concerns informally with the instructor before filing a formal complaint. Any student or group of students may file a complaint concerning any campus issue. The Amarillo College Student Complaint Policy is described in detail in the Student Rights and Responsibilities document.

If you have a complaint regarding the instructor or some aspect of the course, you should first contact your instructor immediately in person or via email and attempt to resolve the situation.  

Course-Based Career Skills

Upon completing this course, you will have developed a range of career-ready skills that can be highlighted on your resume. Depending on your final grade, these skills reflect varying levels of proficiency, from competent (C) to strong (B) to exceptional (A), and include personal responsibility and time management, integrity and ethical behavior, problem-solving and decision-making, clear written communication, effective use of digital technologies, and the ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Grade A – Exceptional Ability:

• Personal responsibility and effective time/workload management

• Integrity and ethical behavior; implements feedback constructively

• Problem-solving and data-driven decision making

• Clear and effective written communication

• Proficient use of digital technologies

• Collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds

Grade B – Strong Ability:

• Personal responsibility and good time/workload management

• Integrity and ethical behavior; responds well to feedback

• Problem-solving and decision-making with data

• Clear and effective written communication

• Proficient use of digital technologies

Grade C – Competent Ability:

• Demonstrates personal responsibility and manages time/workload adequately

• Acts with integrity and considers feedback

• Applies basic problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Communicates effectively in writing

• Uses digital technologies to complete tasks

Intellectual Property Notice: This syllabus, including its content, structure, and formatting, is the intellectual property of the instructor. Students may use it for personal study and course-related purposes only. Reproducing, distributing, or otherwise using this syllabus outside of this course without the instructor’s written permission is strictly prohibited.