How Prosecutions Work

Immunity, extraterritorial reach, money laundering, and obstruction: the machinery of a criminal case.

3:28

Brief

What is criminal immunity?

Use immunity, transactional immunity, and why prosecutors, not judges, decide who gets a deal

3:43

Brief

When can the U.S. prosecute crimes committed abroad?

How U.S. criminal law reaches citizens, foreign nationals, and conduct overseas, from bank cases to bribery

1:47

Brief

What Exactly Is Money Laundering?

A Columbia law professor explains the two elements that turn moving money into a federal crime.

2:22

Brief

Can a President "Obstruct Justice?"

What counts as obstruction, why a sitting president is not indicted, and how presidential immunity applies.

1:08

Brief

Can deportation be punishment for crime?

Why deportation is a civil consequence of a conviction rather than part of the criminal sentence.