Trial Roles & Rulings
Who makes rulings on objections in a mock trial?
The judge
What is the purpose of an opening statement?
To outline what will be proven in the case
What is the core principle or ideal advocated for in LD debate?
The Value
How long is the Affirmative Constructive speech?
Six minutes
What is the standard of proof in a civil case?
Preponderance of the evidence
What typical trial role is absent from the options: Judge, Bailiff, Prosecutor, Legislator?
Legislator
What is the term for questioning your own witness?
Direct examination
What is the statement that one side affirms and the other negates?
The Resolution
Which speech comes last in a round?
The 2nd affirmative rebuttal
What does "hearsay" mean in court?
A statement made outside of court presented to prove the truth of the matter asserted
What is the role of an expert witness?
To provide expert knowledge on specific topics
What is the purpose of jury deliberation?
To discuss the case and reach a verdict
What is the purpose of the criterion?
To provide a standard for measuring the achievement of the value
What immediately follows the Negative Constructive speech?
Affirmative Cross-Examination
What term is given to a question that suggests the desired answer?
A leading question
What party brings the lawsuit in a civil trial?
The Plaintiff
What is the common objection "Relevance" used for?
It's a common objection used to assert that the witness testimony or evidence is not relevant to the case
What is the primary focus of Lincoln-Douglas debate?
Moral and philosophical issues
What is the typical length of cross-examination periods?
Three minutes
What term refers to the obligation to prove one's assertion?
The burden of proof
When a judge says "Sustained," what does it mean for an objection?
The objection is accepted
What is the primary difference in burden of proof between criminal and civil trials?
Criminal trials require beyond a reasonable doubt, while civil trials use preponderance of the evidence
What is the purpose of contentions in a debate case?
To present main arguments supporting the debater's position
What is the speech time for the Negative Constructive speech?
Seven minutes
What standard requires the prosecution to prove guilt to a very high degree of certainty?
Beyond a reasonable doubt