Evidence
Testimony
The spoken or written statement of a witness to prove something is true.
Jury
A group of people from the community who are in charge of voting on the verdict of a case.
Jury Trial
The jury hears the case & decides on the verdict
Search Warrant
Allows authorities to search personal premises in case of suspision.
Culpable
When someone is guilty or deserves blame
Exhibits
Evidence (physical and/or documented) that is shown to the jury.
Defendants
The individuals either being prosecuted or defended in court
Criminal Trial
Judge can send someone to jail for breaking the law
Arrest Warrant
Issued by the judge to allow authorities to arrest someone.
Verdict
The final decision made by the judge or jury
Direct Evidence
Direct proof of a fact (ex. Eyewitness testimonies)
Expert Witness
Someone who can use their knowledge and skills to draw conclusions
Civil Trial
Judge can order someone to pay a fine
Bench warrant
If a person doesn't appear in court, they have to pay a fine
Presumption of innocence
Every defendant is assumed to be innocent until proven guilty
Hearsay
A statement that was made by someone other than the witness and is offered as truth
Lay Witness
Someone who can only base their opinions on things they’ve personally observed.
Bench Trial
The judge hears the case & decides on the verdict
Burden of Proof
The requirement to prove (with evidence) that you are correct.
Circumstantial Evidence
An inference that a chain of circumstances leads up to the existence of certain facts
Plaintiff
The individual(s) initiating the lawsuit or suing the defendant in court.