The Presentation of Evidence
What are opening statements like for a trial?
A movie trailer.
What is presumed innocent?
The defendant is innocent unless the state proves they aren't.
How long do jury deliberations typically last?
It depends on the evidence; it can range from a few hours to just a few minutes if the evidence is very clear or very weak.
What is the narrative?
Lawyers turn random facts into one clear story that makes sense.
What is an opening statement?
This phase of the trial serves as a roadmap for the jury, outlining what each side intends to prove without yet introducing exhibits or testimony.
What is the difference between Indirect and Direct Evidence?
Indirect is circumstantial and Direct is an eyewitness saying "I saw it"
what is High Bar?
you must be 100% sure and no maybe ‘s allowed.
Does the U.S. Supreme Court require a unanimous verdict in every single criminal case?
No; while most jurisdictions require it, the Supreme Court does not require unanimity in noncapital cases.
What is the interpretation?
Lawyers tell you how to think about the facts to prove their side.
What is the burden of proof?
While the prosecution must present a case, the defense can choose to rest immediately, relying on this legal principle that the defendant is "innocent until..."
Is a text message considered "real" or "documentary" evidence?
It is a record of communication, not a physical object like a tool.
What is the law ?
following the judge's rules on what defines the crime.
What is the specific term for a jury that cannot reach a unanimous decision?
A "hung jury".
What is the burden of proof?
The defense points out missing pieces to show there is still doubt.
What is the Closing Argument?
Unlike the opening statement, this final phase allows lawyers to use "argument" to interpret facts and "knit" them into a persuasive story.
Why would a judge block a graphic photo that is relevant to the case?
To maintain fairness. If the photo is too shocking, it might unfairly bias the jury.
What is the facts?
Deciding who is telling the truth.
What can a judge do if a jury is struggling to agree on a verdict?
The judge may issue additional instructions to encourage the jurors to continue deliberating and reach a decision.
What is the appeal to emotion ?
Lawyers use powerful words or symbols to make the jury care about the outcome.
What is "Beyond a Reasonable Doubt"?
Because the prosecution has the burden of proof, the defense will argue that if this "high bar" isn't cleared, the law requires an acquittal.
If a small error happens but the person is clearly guilty anyway, does the trial restart?
No. Under the "Oops" (Harmless Error) rule, the verdict stands if the mistake didn't change the outcome.
What is total agreement ?
Every jury member must vote the same way.
Why are high-profile trials, such as the O.J. Simpson case, often debated in criminal justice?
They raise serious concerns regarding the overall fairness and effectiveness of the jury system.
What is the call to action?
The lawyer ends by telling the jury exactly what verdict they must choose.
What is an Acquittal?
This is the specific legal term for the jury's formal decision of "not guilty," which the defense seeks by highlighting inconsistencies.