This is a courtroom appearance where the defendant hears the charges against them and enters a plea.
Arrainment
I didn't do it.
Not Guilty
What are the possible punishments that don't result in jail time?
Probation. Community Service. House Arrest. Time Served.
T/F Acting out in court is okay.
False. Acting out in court can result in additional charges. You can be held in contempt of court.
Penalty includes life imprisonment and fines up to $100,000
Class 1 Felony
Fingerprints, DNA, video footage of a crime.
Physical Evidence
NGRI (Not Guilty By Reason Of Insanity)
At the time of the crime, I was mentally ill and did not understand that what I was doing was wrong.
Who is our current President?
Donald Trump
T/F If you accept a plea bargain, you still have the right to a trial.
False. You give up the right to a trial, right to remain silent, right to confront/cross examine witnesses, and right to appeal.
A maximum fine of $250.
Class 4 Misdemeanor
What is a character witness?
A person who testifies in court about the defendant’s reputation, moral character, and personal traits rather than the specific facts of a case.
I'm not saying that I did it and I'm not saying that I didn't do it. I want the judge to decide.
No Contest
Two things you need to do in order to be found competent to stand trial?
Pass competency test. Be medication compliant. Cooperate with treatment team.
T/F To be competent, you must understand how the court system works.
TRUE!
Imprisonment for 1 to 10 years or jail up to 12 months and a fine up to $2,500.
Class 5 Felony
This person is the courtroom security officer.
Baliff
I did it.
Guilty
What is an Alford Plea?
A guilty plea in Virginia where a defendant maintains their innocence but acknowledges that the prosecution has enough evidence to likely secure a conviction, enabling them to accept a plea deal to avoid the risk of a harsher sentence at trial.
TRUE!!!
A jail term for up to 12 months and/or a fine not to exceed $2,500.
Class 1 Misdemeanor
This is the defendants request to have a higher court hear their case following a verdict.
Appeal.
What is a PLEA BARGAIN?
A deal between the Prosecutor, your lawyer and you. The judge has to agree with the deal. You must plead guilty or no contest to receive this deal. It usually results in a lighter sentence.
Why did the bike collapse?
It was two tired!!!
T/F The Prosecuter/Commonwealth Attorney is helping you.
False. They are trying to prove you are guilty.
Imprisonment for 5 to 20 years and a fine up to $100,000.
Class 3 Felony