Procedures
Punishment for committing a crime; handed down by the judge
What is a sentence?
Keeps order in the courtroom, makes sure rules are fairly interpreted, decides the verdict, and imposes sentence.
What is the Judge?
The right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney.
What are Miranda Rights?
rude, disrespectful, loud, and yelling
What is disruptive behavior?
· Scolded by the Judge.
· Restrained by the Bailiff.
· Charged with contempt of court (which could result in a fine or jail time).
· Removed from the courtroom, and the hearing or trial could continue without you.
Initial court appearance that involves formal reading of the charges and possible entering of a plea by the client.
What is an arraignment?
Statement made under oath in court regarding some aspect of a case
What is a testimony?
A group of 12 people chosen from the community, who hear and look at the evidence in a case to decide if the defendant is guilty or not.
What is the Jury?
Two-word legal term for police officer’s reasonable suspicion that crime has been committed.
What is probable cause?
Business or professional attire requires dress slacks and button blouse, blazer, and long skirt.
What is appropriate attire to wear to court?
· You should be clean and well-groomed when you go to court.
· Your clothes should be clean, neat, and conservative.
Plea in which client does not accept guilt or responsibility for the crime but acknowledges that there is enough evidence to convict him if he went to trial.
What is Alford Guilty Plea?
Questioning by the opposing attorney on the witness stand.
What is a cross-examination?
Person who testifies in court about a case.
What is a witness?
Rights outlined by 6th Amendment.
What is FAST-Face accuser, appeal, remain silent, fair trial)?
Using your Honor
How to address the Judge?
Name and describe 3 types of witnesses:
What is
1. Eyewitness: person who sees/hears the crime
2. Character: person who can speak about the client’s character, nature, or personality
3. Expert: person who has advanced knowledge about a topic relevant to the case, who can offer an opinion on the matter at hand
Agreement, or deal, made between the client/defense attorney and the prosecutor, in which the client agrees to plead guilty in exchange for a lesser charge and a reduced sentence.
What is a plea bargain?
Attorney who works for the government, who tries to prove that you are guilty, and who seeks the maximum penalty if you are found guilty.
Is not on your side.
What is the Prosecutor/District Attorney?
Preparing a defense with your attorney that is confidential.
What is attorney client privilege?
writing a note or whispering in someone's ear.
How to communicate with attorney during court hearing?
Name 4 pleas:
What is
1. Guilty (I did the crime; I accept responsibility for the crime)
2. Not guilty (I did not do the crime; I do not accept responsibility for the crime)
3. Not guilty by reason of insanity/NGRI (I did the crime, but I was not in my right mind at the time)
4. No Contest (I’m not saying I did it; I’m not saying I didn’t do it)
Court proceeding to determine whether a client is guilty or not guilty of a crime, where both sides present evidence to support their arguments.
What is a trial?
Attorney who defends the client against the charges, who tries to get an acquittal (or not guilty verdict), and who seeks the minimum penalty if you are found guilty.
Is on your side!
What is a Defense Attorney/Public Defender?
A defendant that enters a plea of guilty, no contest, or Alford guilty.
What is giving up your rights?
You give up your right to face your accuser, right to appeal, right to remain silent, and right to a trial.
The Judge will give you a sentence (punishment).
Being on the phone, playing with hair, and eating food
What not to do during court hearing
Able to understand the proceedings against you and to assist in his own defense; know your charges and the court process, and work with your attorney.
What is capable to proceed?