Pleas
When the defendant says they committed a crime
What is guilty?
You do not have to answer questions or explain anything unless you have your attorney present
What is the right to remain silent?
This is a crime that is considered serious and can result in a long prison sentence and/or a large fine
What is a felony?
The person accused of a crime
Who is the defendant?
These are the ways the defendant can communicate with their attorney during a trial
What is by passing a note or whispering?
When the defendant says they did not commit a crime
What is not guilty?
You are entitled to legal representation (even if you cannot afford it)
What is the right to an attorney?
This is a crime that is not as serious as a felony and can result in a shorter jail sentence
What is a misdemeanor?
This person makes sure that the rules are followed so that the trial is fair
Who is the judge?
This is what everyone in the courtroom does when the judge enters
What is stand/rise?
When the defense attorney, Commonwealth's attorney, and Judge agree to allow the defendant to plead to a less serious charge
What is a plea bargain?
You cannot be tried unless you are present in the courtroom
What is the right to be present at trial?
The maximum amount of time you can serve for a felony conviction
What is a life sentence?
This person works to convict the defendant of a crime with which they have been charged
Who is the Commonwealth's attorney/prosecutor?
Speaking too loudly, yelling, getting angry, or cussing in court could lead to the judge doing this to the defendant
What is holding in contempt of court?
When the defendant admits they committed a crime but asks to not be held criminally responsible because they were mentally ill at the time
What is not guilty by reason of insanity?
You can request to be tried and have the outcome decided by 12 of your peers
What is the right to a jury trial?
The maximum amount of time you can serve for a misdemeanor
What is up to one year?
It is this person's job to get the defendant the best outcome possible in their criminal case
Who is the defense attorney?
True or False: It is acceptable for the defendant to tell a witness that they are lying during a trial
What is false?
When the defendant chooses not to fight a criminal charge and instead agrees to take whatever sentence the court gives without a trial
What is no contest?
Your trial will happen in a reasonable amount of time, without unnecessary delays
What is the right to a speedy trial?
This is the maximum fine for a Class 1 felony in the state of Virginia
What is $100,000?
This group of six to 12 impartial people from the community will determine whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty
Who is the jury?
This is when someone testifying in court lies under oath
What is perjury?