Each lesson of this advanced criminal procedure unit is designed to encourage students to think about how interpretation of the criminal procedure amendments of the Constitution has changed over time and impacted the way civil liberties and rights are protected for American citizens.

Parts of many of the court decisions students will analyze are situated within the context of the civil rights movement. Martin Luther King Jr.’s letter from Birmingham Jail is a hallmark primary source that alludes to the nature of constitutional safeguards for civil rights and liberties provided within criminal procedure amendments during this era. As students study the evolution of the interpretation of the law over time, we recommend they read MLK’s letter to understand the civil rights movement and criminal procedure during that time. We encourage you to use this letter during the lessons alone or in conjunction with any of the following recommended sources that make great comparisons for students to analyze.