Select either Self Defense or Insanity and explore that defense in detail for this written assignment You are to write a paper that is 3-5 pages in length and should properly cite your outside sources and use APA style formatting.
You should include a minimum of two outside sources, making certain to properly cite your sources.
I. "It was Self Defense, Your Honor"
On February 26, 2012, George Zimmerman shot and fatally wounded Trayvon Martin. The case is venued in Florida and is currently in process.
You should research the Zimmerman case. Should the defense of "self defense" be raised in this case? What facts and circumstances are relevant to deciding whether George Zimmerman is entitled to the defense of self-defense.
Analyze the concept of "imminent" danger and apply it to the facts of this case. If you were the judge in this case would you rule for or against an imminent danger argument? If you were the Judge or Jury in this case would you accept a defense of self-defense if asserted by Mr. Zimmerman? How might this impact the outcome of the case?
II. "It's Just Insane"
On July 20, 2012 James Holmes became the suspected shooter in a mass theatre shooting that killed 12 people and injured 58 others.
You should research the Holmes case. Should the defense of "insanity" have been raised in this case? What facts and circumstances are relevant to deciding whether James Holmes would have been entitled to the defense of insanity.
Analyze each of the four tests for insanity. If you were the judge in this case would you rule for or against allowing a defense of insanity?
If you were the Judge or Jury in this case would you accept a defense of insanity if asserted by Mr. Holmes? How might this impact the outcome of the case?