Courtroom participants
The person who keeps order in the court, decides if the defendant is guilty or not, and sentences those found guilty.
The Judge
What does it mean to testify?
When a witness, (or myself) is asked to tell the court what they know, saw, heard in a particular situation / Give information to the court on the current case
What are the four pleas available to enter into court?
Guilty, Not Guilty, No Contest, Not guilty by reason of insanity
What does it mean to be sentenced?
To be guilty of the crime and receiving a consequence
What do you call the judge in court?
Your honor
The person whos job it is to prove the defendant guilty
The prosecutor / District Attorney
What do you do if you feel someone who is testifying is lying in court?
Tell your defense attorney by whispering to them / writing them a note
What happens if someone pleads guilty?
They are admitting to the crime and can be sentenced.
What is community service?
Doing work for a non-profit agency for free (EX: helping at a homeless shelter)
How do you dress for court?
Professional / no holes in clothing / no sweatpants or flipflops
The person whos job it is to defend you in court, their goal is to get you either no consequence or the easiest consequence possible
The defense attorney / My lawyer / Public Defender
Is the person charged with a crime required to testify in court if they do not want to?
No, they have the right to remain silent (5th amendment)
What happens if someone pleads not guilty?
They are saying they did not do the crime and can go to trial.
What happens if someone is sentenced to probation?
They get to live at home but for a certain amount of time have specific rules to follow. A probation officer is assigned to them to make sure they are following those rules.
What happens at a trial?
The prosecutor presents evidence, the defense may present evidence but does not have to, and then judge decides if the prosecution has proven the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Jury
Who might ask you questions when testifying?
The Prosecutor / Defense Attorney / Judge
What does a not guilty by reason of insanity plea mean?
The person has a mental illness that prevented them from knowing right from wrong at the time of the crime.
Who does the money from a fine go to?
The court / state
Any act involving disrespect to the court or failure to obey its rules or orders. Can result in being taken out of court room or even jail time
Contempt of court
The person who enforces the rules of behavior in the court room
The Bailiff
What does it mean to be under oath?
You have promised to tell the whole truth in court.
What does a no contest plea mean?
You are not admitting to the crime but also do not feel you can prove your innocence. The court decides what happens to you.
Who does the money from restitution go to?
The victim of the crime
The prosecutor has offered to give you a lighter sentence in exchange for you pleading guilty
Plea bargain/ Plea agreement/ Plea deal