The criminal law emphasis at ASU Law is led by some of the most distinguished criminal law scholars in the nation, all of whom are dedicated to preparing students to promote and pursue criminal justice. Students gain a deep understanding of the criminal justice system through both foundational and specialized classes. Participation in clinics and externship opportunities allows students to put into action the knowledge they gain in the classroom in a real-world setting.<br><br>By taking advantage of the many criminal law-related opportunities offered, graduates will be prepared to advance the ideals of criminal justice as either prosecutors or defense attorneys. The criminal law emphasis at ASU Law goes beyond the courtroom, preparing students for a range of careers in federal and state government as well.<br><br>The criminal law emphasis is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system. The delicate balance between victims rights, public safety, the rights of the accused and incarcerated, as well as humanitarian, fiscal, and practical concerns, have given rise to intense debate on numerous policy issues, including mandatory minimum sentences and mass incarceration, stop-and-frisk policies, use of force, and other policing practices, forensics, eyewitness identification, interrogations, and confessions, discovery, plea bargaining, indigent defense, sentencing disparities, bail reform, and wrongful convictions.