Procedures
Punishment for committing a crime; handed down by the judge
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Keeps order in the courtroom, makes sure rules are fairly interpreted, decides the verdict, and imposes sentence
Judge
Violation of the law, of a criminal statute
Crime
"All rise. Court is now in session. The Honorable Frank Valdez presiding"
Bailiff
The right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present
Miranda Rights
Statement made under oath in court regarding some aspect of a case
Testimony
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
Prosecutor or Prosecuting attorney
Crime punishable by one year or more in prison
Felony
"We find the client guilty of Murder in the 1st Degree."
Jury/Jury Foreman
The first ten amendments of the Constitution
Bill of Rights
Questioning by the opposing attorney on the witness stand
Cross-Examination
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
Defense attorney, Public defender
Anything that can be introduced in a court of law to prove a point or substantiate an argument
Evidence
"Have you had a chance to discuss this plea bargain with your attorney? Do you fully understand its terms? Are you under the influence of any substance that would interfere with your ability to make decisions or enter into this agreement?"
Judge
Prohibition against being tried twice for the same crime
Double Jeopardy - Double Jeopardy Clause
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
Plea Bargain
Person who testifies in court about a case
Witness
Able to understand the proceedings against him and to assist in his own defense; know your charges and the court process, and work with your attorney
Competent
"In my professional opinion, I believe that Jane Doe is not yet competent to stand trial"
Expert Witness
Two-word legal term for police officer’s reasonable suspicion that crime has been committed
Probable Cause
A Court proceeding to determine whether a client is guilty or not guilty of a crime, where both sides present evidence to support their arguments
Trial
Person who keeps a written record of everything that goes on in the courtroom
Court Reporter
Initial court appearance that involves formal reading of the charges and possible entering of a plea by the client
Arraignment
"I would like to plead the 5th Amendment, Your Honor"
Defendant/Client
Rights outlined by the 6th Amendment
Right to Counsel, Right to fair/speedy public trial, Right to confront / call witnesses