Overview of Trials & Evidence

These flashcards cover key concepts related to trials, evidence, and the roles of various legal entities, as discussed in the CRJU 430 course.

Types of Trials

There are two main types: Civil (dispute between private parties) and Criminal (government charging a person with a crime).

Stare decisis

A legal principle dictating that courts must follow precedent set by previous decisions.

Precedent

A prior court decision that serves as an example or authority in deciding similar future cases.

Burden of proof

The obligation of the prosecution to prove a defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases.

Evidence

Testimony, writings, or objects presented to prove the existence or nonexistence of a fact in court.

Fourth Amendment

The constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring warrants to be issued based on probable cause.

Roles of the Judge

To apply the law, protect constitutional rights, oversee trials, impose sentences, and act as a neutral authority.

Roles of the Jury

To act as the fact-finder, applying the law to determine the facts of the case and deciding which stories to believe.

Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE)

A set of rules adopted by federal courts for the admissibility of evidence.

California Evidence Code

The set of rules governing evidence in California state courts, differing from FRE.

Habeas corpus

A formal legal request to determine if someone is being unlawfully detained or imprisoned.

Appeals

The process by which a party can challenge the outcome of a trial, allowed in both civil and criminal cases.

Judgment for Plaintiff

In civil cases, a ruling where the defendant is ordered to pay compensatory and/or punitive damages.

Judgment for Defendant

In criminal cases, a ruling stating that the defendant is not guilty.

Double jeopardy

A legal principle that protects an individual from being tried again for the same crime in the same jurisdiction after a verdict has been reached.

Compensatory Damages

Monetary payments awarded to a plaintiff to compensate for losses or injury.

Punitive Damages

Monetary payments awarded to a plaintiff as a punishment to the defendant for particularly harmful behavior.

Fact-finder

The role of a jury in determining the facts of a case presented in court.

Conviction

A formal declaration that someone is guilty of a criminal offense.