Twelve Angry Men -- Vocabulary - Introduction

What is the meaning of the word "acquittal" as used in a legal context?

• A formal declaration of guilt

• A formal declaration of innocence

• A legal agreement

• A type of punishment

Answer explanation

In a legal context, 'acquittal' refers to a formal declaration of innocence, meaning the accused is found not guilty of the charges against them. This distinguishes it from guilt, legal agreements, or punishments.

In the context of a courtroom, what does the term "deliberation" mean?

• A quick decision

• A detailed discussion

• A formal accusation

• A legal document

Answer explanation

In a courtroom, "deliberation" refers to a detailed discussion among jurors as they consider the evidence and arguments before reaching a verdict. This process is crucial for ensuring a fair and informed decision.

Use context clues to determine the meaning of "verdict" in the following sentence: "The jury reached a unanimous verdict after hours of deliberation."

• A type of punishment

• A legal document

• A decision on a disputed issue

• A formal accusation

Answer explanation

In the sentence, 'verdict' refers to the jury's conclusion after deliberation, indicating it is a decision on a disputed issue. This aligns with the correct choice, as it captures the essence of what a verdict represents in a legal context.

What does the term "testimony" refer to in a legal setting?

• A written law

• A witness's statement under oath

• A judge's ruling

• A lawyer's argument

Answer explanation

In a legal setting, "testimony" specifically refers to a witness's statement made under oath, which is crucial for establishing facts in a case. This distinguishes it from laws, rulings, or arguments presented by lawyers.

Determine the meaning of "reasonable doubt" as used in a courtroom.

• A certainty of guilt

• A lack of evidence

• A standard of proof

• A type of defense

Answer explanation

"Reasonable doubt" refers to a standard of proof in a courtroom, meaning that the evidence presented must leave the jurors with a doubt that is reasonable, ensuring that a defendant is not convicted unless the evidence is convincing.

What is the meaning of "cross-examination" in a legal context?

• A type of legal document

• A direct questioning of a witness

• A review of evidence

• A questioning of a witness by the opposing side

Answer explanation

In a legal context, 'cross-examination' refers to the questioning of a witness by the opposing side. This process allows the opposing party to challenge the witness's testimony and credibility.

Verify the meaning of "hung jury" using context: "The trial ended in a hung jury, as the jurors could not reach a unanimous decision."

• A jury that is biased

• A jury that is undecided

• A jury that is unanimous

• A jury that is dismissed

Answer explanation

A "hung jury" refers to a situation where the jurors cannot reach a unanimous decision, meaning they are undecided. This aligns with the correct choice, as the other options do not accurately describe a hung jury.

What does "prosecution" mean in the context of a trial?

• The defense team

• The act of defending a client

• The legal party responsible for presenting the case against an individual

• The judge's decision

Answer explanation

In a trial, "prosecution" refers to the legal party responsible for presenting the case against an individual accused of a crime, distinguishing it from the defense team, which defends the accused.

Determine the meaning of "defendant" in a courtroom setting.

• The person who accuses another

• The person who is accused of a crime

• The judge in a trial

• The lawyer representing the state

Answer explanation

In a courtroom, the term "defendant" refers to the person who is accused of a crime. This distinguishes them from the accuser, judge, or lawyers representing the state.

What is the meaning of "evidence" in a legal context?

• A type of punishment

• Information presented in a trial to prove or disprove a fact

• A legal document

• A witness's statement

Answer explanation

In a legal context, "evidence" refers to information presented in a trial to prove or disprove a fact. This is crucial for establishing the truth of claims made by either party in the case.