Courtroom Roles
Who is the defendant in a trial?
The person accused of a crime
What does it mean to deliberate as a jury?
To discuss the evidence and arguments to reach a verdict
What is the first step of a criminal trial?
Opening statements
Define “coincidence.”
The chance happening of two events at the same time
What is the primary job of the prosecuting attorney?
To argue that the defendant is guilty and present evidence to prove it
What steps are taken to ensure a jury is fair and impartial?
Attorneys question potential jurors to ensure they have no bias or prejudice that could affect their decision-making
Who decides the verdict at the end of a trial?
The jury
Define “bias.”
A tendency to unfairly approve or disapprove of people based on their characteristics
Why is it important for a jury to avoid bias?
Bias can make the trial unfair by influencing decisions not based on evidence
What role does the judge play during a criminal trial? (Hint: there are 3 possible answers, you need at least 2)
The judge provides instructions to the jury, rules on evidence, and delivers sentencing if the defendant is found guilty
Why is it important for a jury to avoid bias?
Bias can unfairly influence their decision, making the trial outcome unjust
What is the purpose of presenting evidence in a trial?
To show the facts of the case and support each side’s argument
What does it mean to evaluate evidence?
To judge the importance and relevance of the evidence presented in a trial
If a jury member has a strong opinion about the case before the trial starts, what should happen?
They should not serve on the jury because they might not be impartial
What is the relationship between a judge and a jury?
The judge explains the law and provides instructions, while the jury deliberates and decides the verdict
List two responsibilities of a jury during a trial.
Review evidence, deliberate fairly, and reach a unanimous decision based on facts
What happens after the closing arguments?
The jury deliberates to decide the verdict
Use the word “logical” in a sentence about a jury.
The jury made a logical decision based on the evidence presented in court.
What does it mean to deliberate with other jury members?
To discuss the case and decide on a verdict together
What happens when a jury cannot reach a unanimous decision?
It results in a hung jury, and the trial may start again with a new jury
What are the expectations of jury members when they deliberate evidence in a case?
To deliberate respectfully, consider all evidence equally, and avoid discussing the case with outsiders or media
Why is the jury’s role important in the trial process?
They decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty based on the evidence
Use “speculation” in a sentence related to a jury.
The jury avoided speculation and focused only on the evidence presented in court.
Why do you think jurors are told not to talk about the trial outside the courtroom?
To avoid outside opinions influencing their decision