Pleas
When you give up the right to a trial
What is taking a deal/ Plea Bargain?
Makes sure that the everyone in the court is following the rules Sometimes called the "referee" and must remain neutral
What is a judge?
How can you help your attorney?
Be patient
Answer their questions truthfully
Listen to your choices and their advise, think carefully about what they say
What are some ways someone can manager anger
Recognizing your anger early, take a break, deep breathing, think of the consequences
4 types of pleas
Guilty, Not guilty, No Contest, Not guilty by reason of insanity.
Speaks for you in court and advises you of legal options
What is your attorney?
Why is it important to answer your attorney truthfully?
Helps your attorney understand your charges, and if there is evidence against you.
Are rare in the criminal justice system, and when they happen, most end in convictions
What is a trial?
Why do some people think plea bargains are unfair?
Makes people plea guilty/ no contest, even if they are not guilty just to get out of jail.
Everything you say to your attorney is kept between you and your lawyer. They can't tell anyone or use it against you in court
What is confidential?
A group of people (citizens) chosen from the community to determine if a defendant is guilty or not guilty.
What is a jury?
The person charged with the crime.
What is a defendant?
Going up to speak during a trial and both the prosecutor and your attorney will ask you questions that you will be REQUIRED to answer
What is testifying?
Understanding the charges against you and being able to work well with your attorney to assist in your own defense
What is competency
A legal agreement where a defendant pleads guilty or no contest to a criminal charge in exchange for lesser charge/ lesser sentence.
What is a plea bargain?
Avoid the stress of going to trial and the case is settled quicker/ Can be released from jail (if offered probation)
What are the advantages of taking a plea bargain?
What is a trial?
To determine if a defendant is guilty or not guilty. Defendants have the right to a jury or a bench trial. Trials can last from days to months.
Try and balance opposite opinions- Validate both sides, accept reality, and work to find a common ground
What is managing conflict?
The defendant is allowed to leave jail while awaiting trial, but still must appear in court.
What is bail?