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
A claim about the defendant's whereabouts.
What is an alibi?
Double Jeopardy
What is a person cannot be tried twice for the same crime ?
Due Process
What is a legal principle that ensures fair treatment through the judicial system?
What is the primary job of the prosecuting attorney?
To argue that the defendant is guilty and present evidence to prove it
Citizens of that nation, local residents and majority age.
Universally, what is required of jurors?
Who decides the verdict in a trial?
The jury
The jury's final decision (guilty or not guilty).
What is a verdict?
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
Burden of producing evidence beyond all reasonable doubt (persuading the jury to believe) rests with?????
The prosecution
When all 12 jurors to agree on the verdict.
What is unanimous?
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 criminal jury during a trial.
Review evidence, deliberate fairly, and reach a unanimous decision based on facts
A set of procedures designed to make sure that people are treated fairly by the government.
Due Process
The killing of one person by another.
What is homicide?
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
Lack of interest or concern in a member of a jury.
What is apathy?
When evidence has a tendency to prove or disprove disputed facts.
What is relevance?
The juror who leads discussions and delivers the verdict.
Who is the foreman?
Why do you think hearsay is not permitted?
One reason for excluding this evidence is because cross-examination can’t occur, which is the opportunity for one side to ask questions to that witness in hopes of refuting his/her information/credibility.