Courtroom Roles
Who has the role of assessing evidence and deciding on the outcome and verdict of a case?
The judge
When the defendant says they did the crime, what are they admitting to?
Being guilty
Verdict
The final decision reached by a judge in a case
Who has the role of seeking justice and protecting the rights of the accused?
The defense attorney
What are the 3 possible verdicts?
1. Guilty
2. Not guilty
3. Undetermined
Lawsuit
A legal dispute between parties that is brought before a court
Who has the role of representing the government in a criminal trial?
The prosecutor
What are civil cases?
Disputes between individuals or organizations that often involve money
Warrant
A legal document authorizing law enforcement to carry out a specific action like arrest
Who has the role of maintaining order and ensuring safety in the courtroom?
The Bailiff - law enforcement officer
What is one of the consequences for not showing up to jury duty?
You may be...
1. Held in contempt of court
2. Fined up to $1000
3. Sentenced to a jail term of up to 5 days
Appeal
A formal request to a higher court to review a lower court's decision that was incorrect or unjust
Who is responsible for organizing and managing legal documents and assisting the attorney with trial preparations?
A paralegal
Name the 5 steps to a typical trial process
1. Investigation and Charging
2. Initial Hearing
3. Pre-Trial
4. Trial
5. Post-Trial
Affidavit
A written and signed statement with a promise to tell the truth when being used as evidence