iCivics Chapter 9: Courtroom Roles

When my judge is not in the courtroom, I help keep things running smoothly in the judge’s chambers.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

When my judge is in the courtroom, I’m in the courtroom too. I get things the judge needs and makes sure there is order in the court.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

Before a trial, I study the law, talk to witnesses, and gather evidence to build a case to show my client did not break the law or violate anyone’s rights. Often, I work with the other side’s lawyer to try to settle the case without a trial.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

During a trial, I present evidence to convince the jury that my client did not violate the other side’s rights and does not owe the other side anything.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

Before a trial, I study the law, talk to witnesses, and gather evidence to build a case to show that the defendant violated my client’s rights. Often, I work with the other side’s lawyer to try to settle the case without a trial.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

During a trial, I present evidence to convince the jury that the defendant violated my client’s rights and owes something to my client.

• Bailiff

• Civil Attorney for the Defendant

• Civil Attorney for the Plaintiff

Before a trial, I give my lawyer as much information as I can to help her prove that I did not break the law or violate the other person’s rights.

• Civil Defendant

• Court Clerk

• Court Reporter

During a trial, I sit next to my lawyer and hope that the judge or jury will decide I did not break the law or violate the other person’s rights. I will probably get up and tell my side of the story.

• Civil Defendant

• Court Clerk

• Court Reporter

When I’m not in the courtroom, I finish up the official notes I took in the courtroom. I also mark all the evidence the lawyers want to use during the trial and give each piece of evidence a number.

• Civil Defendant

• Court Clerk

• Court Reporter

When I’m in the courtroom, I use a computer to take official notes about what happens.

• Civil Defendant

• Court Clerk

• Court Reporter