Mock Trial and Law Basics

Pennsylvania, but I don't imagine much is specific to PA

Prosecution

The team, consisting of witnesses and lawyers, accusing someone of a crime or wrongdoing

Defense

The team, consisting of witnesses and lawyers, that defends against the prosecution's accusations

Defendant

The specific person or group that is being accused

Plaintiff

Only found in civil cases, the person suing the defendant

Civil Case

A case in which no crime has (allegedly) been committed, but rather a wrongdoing. Has a plaintiff. Ie. property disputes, wrongful death (something to discuss in person)

Criminal Case

A case in which crimes have (allegedly) been committed. The state takes the place of the plaintiff. Ie. Theft, murder. 

Attorney

Lawyer, person arguing a case for or against the defendant. Both sides have three.

Witness

Someone who can provide details for the case, doesn’t have to have seen the crime/wrongdoing. Witnesses get questioned. Both sides have three witnesses.

Opening Statement

Sort of like a speech given at the beginning of the trial by both sides. The prosecution gives theirs first, then the defense. At max 5 minutes long. Lays a base, kind of like a ‘road map’ for the arguments

Direct Examination

When an attorney questions a witness that is on their side. This is done to set up a story and make your side’s argument look and sound good

Cross Examination

When an attorney questions a witness that is on the opposing team. This is done to make the opposing argument look bad, or at least make the witness look bad.