History and evolution
Arguments for and against the death penalty
Basic constitutional challenges and limitations
Constitutional parameters of the current era death penalty
Defining capital crimes
Aggravating and mitigating circumstances
Special defense
Overview of arrest through execution
Jury selection and role of jurors
Guilt stage of trial process
Sentencing stage of trial process
Appeals process
Post-conviction challenges
Clemency and execution proceedings
Assistance of defense counsel
Race, gender, and other biases
Executing the innocent
Foreign and international law issues
Future of the death penalty.