Mock Trial Vocabulary Courtroom Roles & Procedures

These flashcards cover key vocabulary, roles, and processes related to mock trials, aiding in understanding courtroom dynamics and essential legal terminology.

Judge

The official who oversees the trial and makes legal decisions.

Attorney / Lawyer

A person who argues the case for one side.

Prosecutor

The attorney who tries to prove the defendant is guilty.

Defense Attorney

The attorney who represents the defendant.

Defendant

The person accused of a crime.

Plaintiff

The person bringing a case (usually in civil trials).

Witness

A person who gives testimony about what they know.

Jury

A group of people who decide the verdict.

Bailiff

The court officer who maintains order.

Clerk

The person who helps the court by keeping records and organizing paperwork.

Trial

A formal examination of evidence in court.

Opening Statement

The first explanation of each side’s case.

Closing Argument

The final summary meant to persuade the jury.

Testimony

Statements made by witnesses under oath.

Cross-Examination

Questioning a witness from the opposing side.

Direct Examination

Questioning your own witness.

Objection

A protest that a rule is being broken.

Sustain

When the judge agrees with an objection.

Overrule

When the judge disagrees with an objection.

Recess

A short break in the trial.

Statute

Law.

Case Law

The collection of past court decisions that judges use to help decide new cases.

Evidence

Facts or objects used to prove a claim.

Exhibit

A specific piece of evidence shown in court.

Testify

To speak under oath in court.

Oath

A promise to tell the truth.

Credible

Believable and trustworthy.

Inconsistent

Not matching or contradicting earlier statements.

Circumstantial Evidence

Evidence that suggests something indirectly.

Direct Evidence

Evidence that proves a fact directly.

Claim

A statement that one side is trying to prove.

Argument

Reasons given to support a claim.

Burden of Proof

The responsibility to prove a case.

Verdict

The jury’s final decision.

Reasonable Doubt

A logical reason to question guilt.

Bias

Unfair preference or prejudice.

Motive

A reason someone might commit an action.

Inference

A conclusion based on evidence and reasoning.