Civics - Trial Vocabulary

A written statement of facts confirmed by the oath of the party making it, before a notary or officer having authority to administer oaths.

• affidavit
• chambers
• clerk of court
• court

something that someone says happened.

• court reporter
• judgement
• allegation
• sequester

A request made after a trial, asking another court (usually the court of appeals) to decide whether the trial was conducted properly. To make such a request is "to appeal" or "to take an appeal." One who appeals is called the appellant.

• indictment
• jury
• witness
• appeal

Security given for the release of a criminal defendant or witness from legal custody (usually in the form of money) to secure his/her appearance on the day and time appointed.

• trial
• bail
• prosecute
• oath

Trial without a jury in which a judge decides the facts.

• bench trial
• complaint
• cross examine
• felony

 A judge's office.

• affidavit
• chambers
• clerk of court
• court

A crime punishable by death.

• voire dire
• capital offense
• conviction
• docket

The law that the police believe the defendant has broken.

• charge
• circumstantial evidence
• impeachment
• plaintiff

The law that the police believe the defendant has broken.

• charge
• impeachment
• plaintiff
• circumstantial evidence

The judge's instructions to the jury concerning the law that applies to the facts of the case on trial.

• jurisdiction
• verdict
• deposition
• charge to the jury