Competency to Proceed
James is asked what crime he is accused of. He correctly explains the offense and describes what he allegedly did. Which competency factor does James demonstrate?
What is appreciation of charges?
Randy witnesses an argument outside a convenience store. He sees one person pull out a weapon and attack the other. Later, Randy is called to explain what he personally saw. What type of witness is Randy?
What is an eyewitness?
When asked how he pleads, Chris tells the judge that he committed the offense. What plea is Chris entering?
What is a guilty plea?
Attorney Lee questions her own client about where he was on the night of the alleged crime. What type of examination is this?
What is direct examination?
A person in Florida is convicted of an offense and receives a sentence of eight months. What facility would generally be used for this sentence?
What is county jail?
Sofia understands that if she is convicted, she could be placed on probation or sent to prison. Which competency factor does she demonstrate?
What is appreciation of possible penalties?
Dr. Chan is a forensic pathologist. He uses his specialized medical knowledge to explain the cause of a victim's death in court. What type of witness is Dr. Chan?
What is an expert witness?
Maria tells the judge that she is not admitting or denying the charge but is willing to accept the court's decision. What plea is Maria entering?
What is a no contest plea?
After a defense witness testifies, the State Attorney asks that witness questions about their earlier statements. What type of examination is this?
What is cross-examination?
A defendant is convicted of a third-degree felony in Florida. What is the general maximum prison sentence for this felony classification?
What is "up to 5 years"?
Tyler explains that his defense attorney is there to defend him, while the State Attorney tries to prove his guilt. Which competency factor does he demonstrate?
What is understanding of the legal process?
Jennifer is on trial for battery. Her longtime neighbor testifies that Jennifer has always been honest and respectful and describes her reputation in the community. What type of witness is the neighbor?
What is a character witness?
Derek is originally charged with a serious offense. His attorney negotiates an agreement for him to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more favorable outcome. What type of bargain is this?
What is a charge bargain?
A criminal case is heard without a jury. The judge listens to the evidence and decides whether the defendant is guilty. What type of trial is this?
What is a bench trial?
During an offense, a defendant uses a weapon. A child is also present during the crime. According to the sentencing guidelines, would these factors result in a longer or shorter sentence?
What is "a longer sentence"?
Jordan is willing to work with his attorney and share important information about his case. Which competency factor does he demonstrate?
What is ability to work with attorney/disclose information?
Police investigating a burglary discover the suspect's fingerprints match fingerprints found at the crime scene. What type of evidence connects the suspect to the crime?
What is fingerprint evidence (physical or forensic evidence)?
Taylor agrees to plead guilty, and the plea agreement specifies the exact sentence she will receive. What type of plea bargain is this?
What is a sentence bargain?
During a criminal trial, the prosecutor asks the defendant to explain what happened during the alleged crime. The defendant chooses not to testify because they do not want to say anything that could be used against them. What constitutional right is the defendant exercising?
What is "the Fifth Amendment/right to remain silent"?
A defendant is a first-time offender and helps police solve another crime. According to the sentencing guidelines, would these factors result in a longer or shorter sentence?
What is "a shorter sentence"?
During the competency evaluation, Alex explains that he understands courtroom rules and can control his behavior, even when he is upset. Which competency factor does this demonstrate?
What is capacity for appropriate behavior?
John is sworn in as a witness. Although he saw the defendant steal a car, he deliberately lies under oath and claims he saw nothing. What crime could John be charged with?
What is perjury?
Which three individuals must agree to the plea bargain?
What is the defendant, the prosecutor/State Attorney, and the judge?
A jury listens to the witnesses, reviews the evidence, and discusses the case before deciding whether the prosecution has proved its case. What is the jury's final decision called?
What is a "verdict"?
A defendant is convicted of Florida's most severe felony classification, which can carry life imprisonment or the death penalty. What is this classification?
What is a capital felony?