COURT PEOPLE
The person who is neutral, looks at evidence, and decides the punishment if someone is found guilty. They can determine Guilt or Innocence during a BENCH trial.
Who is the JUDGE?
When the DEFENSE lawyer and the PROSECUTOR take turns asking the witnesses questions in order to prove their side of the story.
This is the FIRST TIME a defendant is in front of the judge after being arrested; the judge reads the charges and decides if the person can be let go on bond or needs to stay in jail until their next court date.
This is the type of charge you have against you.
What are MISDEMEANORS?
The person who is the courtroom security guard; they make sure everyone in the room is quiet and respectful.
Who is the BAILIFF?
A trial where there are 12 random people who listen to the evidence and make the final decision about the defendant being INNOCENT or GUILTY.
What is a JURY TRIAL?
This is when the DEFENSE LAWYER asks the court to let the defendant be released on bond while they wait for their next court date. The only ask for this if the defendant was KEPT IN JAIL during the arraignment.
What is a BOND MOTION?
This is the number of charges you have against you
The lawyer who is DEFENDING YOU. They speak on your behalf and make sure you get the best outcome possible.
Who is the DEFENSE LAWYER?
A trial where there is NO JURY; only the Judge is listening to evidence and making the final decision about GUILT or INNOCENCE.
This is the LAST TIME the defendant is in front of the judge; this is when the judge decides what the punishment will be if the defendant is GUILTY.
What is SENTENCING?
You have TWO counts of this charge
What is FAILURE TO APPEAR
The lawyer who is NOT on your side; they want to make sure you are convicted and can offer a plea deal.
Who is the PROSECUTOR?
This is what you can ask for if you are found GUILTY, however you CANNOT ask for this if you take a PLEA DEAL. If you take a plea deal, it is FINAL SALE.
What is an APPEAL?
You have ONE count of this charge
What is FAILURE TO STOP
The person who has charges against them and must appear in court.
Who is the DEFENDANT?
This is the person who decides whether they want to have a JURY trial or a BENCH/JUDGE trial.
This is the right that allows you to go to court as soon as possible.
What is DWI, FIRST OFFENSE