Rights
When police continue questioning a suspect after they clearly request a lawyer, they are violating this constitutional protection.
Right to an attorney- 6th amendment
his court official is responsible for keeping the official record of proceedings and marking admitted exhibits.
Court Clerk
This plea allows a defendant to accept punishment without admitting guilt.
No Contest
This verdict acknowledges that the defendant committed the act but lacked criminal responsibility due to mental illness
Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity
Lying under oath in court is known as this crime.
Perjury
If a defendant believes legal mistakes were made during trial, they can request this from a higher court.
Appeal
This attorney’s ethical duty is to provide a zealous defense even if they personally believe their client is guilty.
Defense Attorney
A defendant who believes they will likely be convicted but refuses to admit guilt might enter this plea to accept a sentence while maintaining innocence.
Alford
This verdict means the jury believes the prosecution proved the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Guilty
If a defendant is found unable to understand court proceedings or assist in their defense, they are declared this.
Incapable to proceed
This amendment protects against self-incrimination and is the basis for a suspect refusing to answer police questions.
5th amendment
Although employed by the executive branch, this courtroom figure’s duty is not merely to win cases but to seek justice, including disclosing exculpatory evidence.
District Attorney/Prosecutor
Before accepting this plea, a judge must ensure it is entered knowingly, voluntarily, and supported by a factual basis.
Guilty plea
After this verdict is entered, the constitutional protection against double jeopardy generally prevents the defendant from being tried again for the same offense.
Acquittal
In this type of trial, jurors determine facts, while the judge still decides issues of law.
Jury trial
A defendant’s trial is delayed 4 years due solely to court backlog. The defense objects. The court must evaluate whether this constitutional protection has been violated
The 6th amendment-speedy trial
This courtroom professional ensures security, enforces courtroom decorum, and may take custody of the jury during deliberations.
Bailiff
Unlike competency to stand trial, this plea addresses the defendant’s mental state at the time the crime was committed.
Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity
When a jury cannot reach unanimous agreement after extended deliberations, the result is this outcome
Hung jury
During trial, this person rules on objections, determines admissibility of evidence, instructs the jury on the law, and may set aside a jury’s verdict under limited circumstances.
Judge
During trial, the prosecution introduces a sworn written statement from a witness who does not appear in court. The defense objects on constitutional grounds.
Face your accuser
Unlike a court reporter who transcribes proceedings verbatim, this licensed professional provides real-time transcription through stenographic recording.
Court Reporter
If a defendant enters this plea, the case proceeds to trial unless resolved through dismissal or plea agreement.
This outcome does not resolve guilt or innocence and often results in the possibility of retrial.
Mistrial
A defendant is initially found incapable to proceed because they cannot understand the charges or assist counsel. After several months of treatment, a new hearing is held where medical testimony shows the defendant now understands courtroom roles, the plea options available, and can meaningfully assist their attorney. The court may now resume prosecution because the defendant has been restored to this legal status.
Capable to proceed