People in the Court 1
In charge of the courtroom and provides a sentence if the Defendant if found guilty.
Judge
This court official makes sure the Judge's rules are followed, can remove people from the court who are disruptive, and swears in the witnesses.
Bailiff
This plea means that you admit that you committed the crime you are charged with. You go straight to sentencing
Guilty
The right to remain silent and the right to have an Attorney. If you cannot afford an Attorney, one will be appointed to you.
Miranda Rights
Punishment for a crime, given by the judge
Sentence
Attorney who works for the State, who tries to prove that you are guilty, and who seeks the maximum penalty if you are found guilty; Is NOT on your side.
Prosecutor/District Attorney
Person who testifies in court what they saw or heard about a crime committed
Eyewitness
This plea means that you are telling the court that you did not commit the crime. You go to trial
Conversations between you and your attorney are private and cannot be used against you
When you don't understand the charges against you and/or you aren't able to work well with your attorney to assist in your own defense because of a mental illness.
Incapable to Proceed (ITP)
Attorney who defends the Defendant against the charges, who tries to get a not guilty verdict. Who seeks a lesser sentence if the Defendant if found guilty; Is on YOUR side!
Defense Attorney/Public Defender
A person who knows you who testifies about your personality/reputation
Character witness
You're not saying whether you did the crime or not - you're letting the judge decide. Go straight to sentencing.
No Contest
True or false: You have to testify at your trial
False
Facts/objects that prove either innocence or guilt (videotapes, DNA, fingerprints, witness testimony)
Evidence
A group of 12 people chosen from the community, who hear and look at the evidence in a case to decide if the defendant is guilty or not.
Jury
Testifies about special knowledge. These include fingerprint experts, police detectives, and Forensic Examiners.
Expert witness
You're saying you did the crime, but did not understand what you were doing because of a mental illness. Go to trial
NGRI (Not guilty by reason of insanity)
What right should you never give up?
Right to an attorney
What the jury gives after reviewing the evidence in a trial
Verdict
The person charged with committing the crime
Defendant
This person types or records word for word what is said in court.
Court Reporter
You are maintaining your innocence, but you admit the prosecution has enough evidence to convict you
What rights do you give up if you take a plea bargain?
FAST - right to face your accuser, right to appeal, right to remain silent, right to a trial
The defendant, prosecutor, defense attorney, and judge all have to agree to this before it can be accepted. usually results in a lighter sentence
Plea Bargain/Plea Deal