Courtroom Actors and Criminal Trial Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts from the courtroom working group and the criminal trial process.

What are the two main categories of participants in a trial?

Professionals and outsiders.

Who are considered professional courtroom actors?

Judges, prosecuting attorneys, defense attorneys, and public defenders.

What is the primary duty of a judge in a trial?

To ensure justice is served and decide the guilt or innocence of the defendant.

What type of discretion do prosecutors have before a case comes to trial?

Prosecutorial discretion, allowing them to accept plea bargains, divert suspects, or dismiss cases.

In Brady v. Maryland, what is the prosecution required to disclose?

Evidence that directly relates to guilt or innocence.

What is the role of defense counsel?

To represent the accused and ensure their civil rights are not violated.

What are the three major categories of defense attorneys?

Private attorneys, court-appointed counsel, and public defenders.

What landmark case established the right to counsel for defendants charged with felonies?

Gideon v. Wainwright.

What is the purpose of the Sixth Amendment in the context of trial?

To guarantee the right to a fair trial, including the right to an impartial jury.

What is the process of jury selection called?

Voir dire examination.

What is the difference between factual guilt and legal guilt?

Factual guilt refers to whether the defendant committed the crime; legal guilt is established based on evidence presented in court.

What is a 'speedy trial act'?

A law that allows for the dismissal of federal criminal charges if prosecution doesn't seek indictment within a specified time.

What is the purpose of opening statements in a trial?

To present the facts of the case to the jury and outline what each side intends to prove.

What types of evidence are there?

Direct and circumstantial evidence.

What does the term 'hearsay' refer to in legal proceedings?

Statements made outside of court that cannot be corroborated by the witness's personal knowledge.

What is required for a jury's verdict in many jurisdictions?

A unanimous verdict.

What occurs if a jury cannot reach a verdict?

It results in a hung jury.

What does the term 'Allen Charge' refer to?

A judge's instruction to a deadlocked jury to encourage them to continue deliberating.