Key Terms
What is a trial?
A formal examination of evidence by a judge to decide guilt in criminal or civil proceedings.
What is a civil jury trial?
A trial concerning disputes between individuals or organizations about private rights.
What is a jury?
A group of citizens sworn to give a verdict based on evidence presented in court.
What is the first step in a trial process?
Accusation of a crime or filing of a lawsuit.
What is the primary purpose of civil law?
Resolves disputes involving private rights, such as property or contracts.
Define the term "trial process."
The sequence of steps that begins with an accusation or lawsuit and ends with a final judgment.
What is a misdemeanor jury trial?
A trial for less serious crimes that generally have less severe punishments.
What is the role of juries in the American legal system?
Juries decide the verdict in trials based on evidence, ensuring democratic participation and protecting rights.
What is the difference between the roles of petit juries and grand juries
Petit juries decide the outcome of trials, while grand juries assess if there is enough evidence for a trial.
What is the primary purpose of criminal law?
Punishes offenses against society, ensuring justice and public safety.
What does "administration of justice" mean?
The execution process of the legal system, including law enforcement and judicial institutions.
What is a felony jury trial?
A trial for serious crimes that can result in severe penalties like prison terms.
What does "jury selection" involve?
The process of questioning potential jurors to ensure they can judge fairly and impartially.
What is the purpose of a trial court?
To hear cases and decide verdicts based on evidence.
What is the difference between a civil and a criminal jury trial?
Civil trials resolve private disputes, while criminal trials decide guilt in crimes.
How is justice defined in the context of the legal system?
The fair and impartial treatment of all individuals under the law.
What is the difference between state-level and federal-level legal proceedings?
State level pertains to jurisdictions within a state, while federal level pertains to the national legal system.
Why are juries important in the American legal system?
Juries ensure democratic participation in government, protect individual rights, and contribute to the fair administration of justice.
Explain the process of presenting evidence during a trial.
Evidence is presented by both parties, followed by arguments and jury deliberation.
In civil law, what type of cases are typically resolved?
Cases like marriage, property ownership, or contracts.
What is a jury summons?
An official order to appear in court to serve on a jury.
What is the role of grand juries?
A grand jury determines if enough evidence exists to charge someone with a crime.
What standard of proof do juries use in criminal cases versus civil cases?
Criminal cases require proof "beyond a reasonable doubt," whereas civil cases use "preponderance of the evidence."
What is the final step in the trial process?
The final judgment is delivered by the judge or jury.
What is the standard of proof for criminal law versus civil law?
Criminal law uses "beyond a reasonable doubt," while civil law uses "preponderance of the evidence."