Intro to courts, chapter 5: Prosecutors - Criminal Courts: A Contemporary Perspective

These flashcards cover key concepts about the role and functions of prosecutors in the criminal justice system based on the provided lecture notes.

Prosecutor

The government's representative in the criminal justice system.

Discretion

The power to make decisions based on one's own judgment; prosecutors have significant discretion in their roles.

Adversarial System

A legal system where two advocates represent their parties' positions before an impartial person or group.

Judiciary Act of 1789

A law that established the federal judiciary and outlined the appointment of prosecutors.

District Attorney

The person in charge of the prosecutor's office at the local level, often elected for a 4-year term.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys

Lawyers who carry out the day-to-day operations under the U.S. Attorney.

Prosecutorial Misconduct

Improper or unethical behavior by a prosecutor that may affect the outcome of a case.

Progressive Prosecution

A move toward a more utilitarian approach in prosecution, focusing on reducing mass incarceration and wrongful convictions.

Community Prosecution

A proactive model of justice that emphasizes partnerships among the prosecutor’s office, law enforcement, and the community.

Plea Bargaining

The process in which a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence.