Who is Who in Court
They help you, defend you, and are on your side
Who is the defense attorney?
Saying this means I did the crime and I would get convicted
Someone who has information to tell the court
Who is a witness?
I should be awake, respectful, and not speak unless spoken to
How should I act in court?
The district attorney presents evidence against you and your lawyer attempts to discredit it while the judge and jury listen to both sides
What is a trial?
They try to convict you and find you guilty. Also known as a Prosecutor
Who is the District Attorney
Saying this means I did not do the crime, in which case I would go to trial
What is a not guilty plea?
They were there when the crime happened; tell about what they saw in court
What is an eyewitness?
I should whisper quietly or write a note
Includes witnesses, camera/tape recordings, fingerprints or DNA samples
What is evidence?
Presides over the case, listens to both sides and decides the sentence if guilty. Is neutral
Who is the Judge?
Saying this means that at the time of the crime I did not understand what I did was wrong because of my mental illness, and I would go to the hospital for treatment
What is an NGRI (Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity) plea?
Give an opinion of the type of person you are; can include friends, family, co-workers, employers, etc.
What is a character witness?
I should know their name and phone number and contact them regarding my case
How should I get in touch with my lawyer?
Lying in court and under oath; considered a felony
What is Perjury
Made up of 6-12 people in the community; listen to the case and evidence and decide on the verdict
What is the Jury?
Saying this means I would plead guilty to a less serious charge for a less severe sentence; Needs to be decided by myself, both lawyers, and the judge
What is a plea bargain?
I tell my story in court; I don't have to do it
What does it mean to testify?
I should trust them, listen to them, and talk to them if I disagree with them
How do I get along with my lawyer?
Supervision in the community where I see an officer regularly and follow conditions; can go back to prison if I don't comply
What is probation/parole?
The officer who keeps order in the court room, brings witnesses to the stand and assists the judge
Who is the Bailiff?
Saying this means I will let the judge/jury decide if I'm guilty or not by trial
What is a no contest plea?
Professionals such as psychologists, geneticists and crime scene analysts; look at the evidence and give their opinion in court based on it
What is an expert witness?
I could get a contempt of court charge
What can happen if I act out in court?
Fair treatment through the judicial system
What is Due Process