Steps in a Courtroom Trial and the US Court System

Vocabulary flashcards based on important terms and concepts related to courtroom trials and the U.S. court system.

Jury

A group of people sworn to give a verdict in a legal case, based on evidence presented in court.

Verdict

A decision made by a jury or judge in a legal case, stating whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty.

Opening Statement

The initial statement made by each side in a trial, outlining the case they will present to the jury.

Direct Examination

The questioning of a witness by the lawyer who called them to the stand, to elicit information supporting their case.

Cross Examination

The questioning of a witness by the opposing lawyer, to challenge their testimony or expose inconsistencies.

Closing Arguments

The final statement made by each side in a trial, summarizing their arguments and urging the jury to reach a verdict in their favor.

Lay vs. Expert Witness

A lay witness is someone with personal knowledge of the case but is not an expert, while an expert witness has specialized knowledge or training.

Plaintiff/Prosecutor

The party who brings a lawsuit in a civil case, or the government attorney who brings charges in a criminal case.

Precedent

An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.

Stare Decisis

The legal principle of determining points in litigation according to precedent.

Writ of Certiorari

A written request asking the Supreme Court of the United States to review a case.

Bench trial

A trial conducted by a judge without a jury, where the judge decides the facts and applies the law.

Defense Attorney

The lawyer who represents the defendant in a legal case, defending them against the charges.

Appeal

A formal request to a higher court to review a decision made by a lower court.

Petitioner

The person or party who initiates a legal action or makes a formal request to a court.

Respondent

The person or party who is the subject of a legal action or request.

Oral Argument

A presentation of a case before a court by spoken word, where lawyers present their case and answer questions.

Motion

A formal request made to a court or judge during a legal proceeding.

Legal brief

A written document that presents the legal arguments and supporting evidence in a case.