Courtroom

Front

What does 'Guilty' mean?

Back

Means you formally admit to committing the crime of which you are accused.

Front

What does 'Not Guilty' mean?

Back

Means you formally deny committing the crime of which you are accused. With this plea, your case will proceed towards a trial where the State must prove you guilty of the crime. You can change this plea at any time during the course of the Court case.

Front

What is a criminal case?

Back

A court proceeding in which a person who is charged with having committed or omitted an act against the community or state is brought to trial and either found not guilty or guilty and sentenced.

Front

What does Conviction mean?

Back

A judgment of guilt against a criminal defendant.

Front

What does the Prosecutor do?

Back

A lawyer who conducts the case against the defendant.

Front

What is the role of a Defense Attorney?

Back

A lawyer who represents the defendant in a criminal case.

Front

What is a Plea Bargain?

Back

An agreement in a criminal case where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence.

Front

What is the purpose of a Jury?

Back

A group of citizens sworn to give a verdict in a legal case based on the evidence presented.

Front

What does 'Beyond a Reasonable Doubt' mean?

Back

The standard of proof required in a criminal trial to convict a defendant.

Front

What is an Arraignment?

Back

A court proceeding in which the defendant is formally charged and asked to enter a plea.