CRJU 301 - Criminal Courts & Judicial Processes Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the types of trials, constitutional rights to a jury, juror selection processes, and standards of proof as discussed in CRJU 301.

Court/Bench Trial

A type of trial presided over and decided by a judge rather than a jury.

Article III, Section 2, Clause 3

The constitutional provision stating that the trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall be by jury.

6th Amendment

Guarantees the accused the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury, the right to confront witnesses, and the assistance of counsel.

Duncan v. Louisiana

The Supreme Court case that ruled states must provide defendants with a jury trial in serious criminal cases.

Petty Offense Exception

The rule that there is no constitutional right to a jury trial for an offense that carries 6 months or less of jail.

California Constitution (Jury Trial)

Provides for a jury trial in all criminal cases, whether felony or misdemeanor, regardless of the penalty.

Juvenile Delinquency Proceedings

Legal proceedings in which neither the United States nor State Constitutions require a jury trial.

Minimum Juror Count

Under the 6th Amendment, juries may be comprised of as few as 6 jurors, but no less.

Rule 23 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure

Requires 12 jurors in federal criminal trials unless the parties agree otherwise.

Fair Cross Section

One of two requirements for an impartial jury, ensuring the jury pool is representative of the community.

Master Lists & Summons

The process of randomly summoning people for jury service from voter registration, DMV records, tax records, and other government sources.

Venire

A random selection of those summoned for jury service who are then sent to the courtroom where the trial will be held.

Voir Dire

The process where the final composition of the jury is shaped through the exercise of juror challenges.

Challenge for Cause

A challenge to a prospective juror based on a demonstrated inability to be impartial; it is unlimited in number but requires court approval.

Preemptory Challenge

An objection to a prospective juror that calls for their excusal without needing to give a reason; they are limited in number.

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

The highest standard of proof on the evidentiary spectrum and the burden required for the prosecutor at trial.

Ramos v. Louisiana (2020)

The Supreme Court case ruling that the 6th Amendment, via the 14th Amendment, requires unanimity in criminal jury verdicts.