CJ CHP10

At what point in the criminal justice process do prosecutors have influence?

Prosecutors have influence from the point of investigation through trial, plea bargaining, and sentencing.

What is illegal for prosecutors regarding evidence?

It is illegal for prosecutors to hide evidence from the defense.

Are most public defenders qualified and motivated?

Yes, most public defenders are qualified and dedicated, but face overwhelming caseloads.

Do public defenders spend much time in court?

Yes, public defenders spend a significant amount of their time in court.

Do wealthy criminal defense attorneys work with celebrities?

Wealthy criminal defense attorneys may work with high-profile clients like celebrities.

Are the majority of convicted offenders in state prisons indigent?

Yes, most convicted offenders in state prisons are indigent and receive publicly provided defense.

What challenge can public defenders face with defendants?

Public defenders can struggle to gain defendants' trust because they are paid by the state.

What is a common issue with criminal lawyers' caseloads?

Many criminal lawyers handle large caseloads for relatively low compensation.

Who do prosecutors represent in the criminal justice system?

Prosecutors represent the state or government, not the accused or convicted offenders.

What is the most common selection method for county prosecutors?

The most common method for selecting county prosecutors is through popular election.

How can public opinion affect a prosecutor's case selection?

Public opinion can influence a prosecutor’s decision to take or drop a case.

What type of discretion does a prosecutor have?

Prosecutors have broad discretion in pursuing cases and negotiating plea deals.

What are the next steps for a prosecutor after filing a case?

After filing a case, the prosecutor prepares for trial, gathering evidence and witness lists.

What is a 'nolle prosequi'?

A 'nolle prosequi' is when a prosecutor decides to drop a case.

What is discovery in legal terms?

Discovery is the process by which both parties exchange evidence before trial.

How many federal districts are there in the US?

There are 94 federal districts in the US.

What did Gideon vs Wainright establish?

It established the right to legal counsel for all defendants, regardless of their ability to pay.

What is Strickland vs Washington known for?

It set a standard for determining ineffective assistance of counsel.

What was ruled in Powell vs Alabama?

Defendants in capital cases must have access to counsel, violating the Due Process if not provided.

What do Miranda rights ensure?

Miranda rights ensure suspects are informed of their rights during interrogations.

What is the accusatory process?

The series of events following the arrest of a suspect.

What is assigned counsel?

Assigned counsel is an attorney in private practice assigned to represent an indigent by the court.

What is community prosecution?

Community prosecution involves prosecutors working closely with citizens to solve problems.

What is contract counsel?

Contract counsel is an attorney who contracts with the government to represent indigent defendants.

What are counts in legal terminology?

Counts refer to each separate offense a person is charged with.

Who is the defense attorney?

The lawyer who represents the defendant(s) in legal proceedings.

What is meant by legal sufficiency?

Legal sufficiency is the minimum legal elements necessary for prosecution.

What does 'nolle prosequi' mean?

'Nolle prosequi' indicates that charges will not be prosecuted.

Who is the prosecuting attorney?

The lawyer who represents the state in a criminal case.

What is a public defender?

An attorney employed by the government to represent indigent defendants.

Who is the state attorney general?

The chief legal officer of a state.

What does system efficiency refer to in prosecution?

System efficiency refers to encouraging speedy disposition of cases in response to caseloads.

What does trial sufficiency ensure?

Trial sufficiency ensures there are sufficient legal elements for successful prosecution.

Who are United States attorneys?

Officials responsible for prosecuting crimes that violate federal laws.

What is Due Process?

Fair treatment in the judicial system including notice of charges and the opportunity to defend.

Who represents state, federal, and municipal courts?

Representatives include state judges, district attorneys, public defenders, federal judges, and U.S. attorneys.