Understanding Federal Civil Cases

What initiates a federal civil case?

• A jury is selected

• The defendant files a response

• A judge orders the initiation

• A party files a complaint and pays a filing fee

What is the purpose of 'discovery' in a civil case?

• To determine the amount of damages

• To select a jury

• To prepare for trial by exchanging information

• To settle the case before trial

What might a plaintiff seek in a civil lawsuit?

• To apply for a jury

• A declaration of legal rights or compensation

• To have the case dismissed

• Criminal charges against the defendant

What is a deposition?

• A witness's sworn out-of-court testimony

• A judge's final decision

• A public announcement of the trial date

• A pre-trial settlement

What can judges encourage to avoid trials?

• Extended discovery periods

• Immediate court rulings

• Mediation and arbitration

• Public debates

What is required for a plaintiff to succeed in a civil case?

• A confession from the defendant

• Unanimous jury agreement

• A preponderance of the evidence

• Proof beyond a reasonable doubt

What is the role of a court reporter during a trial?

• To maintain trial records

• To represent the defendant

• To assist the jury

• To judge the case

What might a civil action complaint describe?

• The plaintiff’s damages or injury and the defendant's role

• The biography of the judge

• The criminal background of the defendant

• The laws of the state

What is an alternative to a jury trial in civil cases?

• A legislative hearing

• A police investigation

• A press conference

• A bench trial

A court case that is settling a dispute, it often involves money as a settlement

• Libel

• Slander

• Criminal Cases

• Civil Cases