Courtroom Terms

What is the purpose of a "closing argument" in a trial?

• To introduce new evidence

• To summarize the case and persuade the jury

• To question the witnesses

• To announce the verdict

Answer explanation

The purpose of a closing argument is to summarize the case and persuade the jury by highlighting key evidence and arguments presented during the trial, rather than introducing new evidence or questioning witnesses.

The _____ represents the states case in criminal trial

• prosecuting attorney

• Judge

• Defense

• Defense attorney

Answer explanation

The prosecuting attorney represents the state's case in a criminal trial, presenting evidence and arguments against the defendant. The other options, such as the defense and defense attorney, represent the accused.

What does the term "plea bargain" mean in the context of a legal trial?

• An agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge

• A formal protest by the defense attorney

• The process of selecting a jury

• The final decision made by the jury

Answer explanation

The term "plea bargain" refers to an agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge, often to receive a lighter sentence or avoid a trial. This option correctly defines the term in a legal context.

Who is responsible for ensuring the jury understands the legal instructions during a trial?

• The prosecutor

• The defense attorney

• The judge

• The bailiff

Answer explanation

The judge is responsible for ensuring the jury understands the legal instructions during a trial. This includes clarifying any legal terms and ensuring the jury comprehends their duties in relation to the law.

What does the term "subpoena" mean in a legal context?

• A request to dismiss the case

• A legal order to attend court or produce evidence

• A decision made by the jury

• A statement made by the judge

Answer explanation

In a legal context, a "subpoena" is a legal order requiring an individual to attend court or produce evidence. This distinguishes it from other legal terms, making the correct choice "A legal order to attend court or produce evidence."

What does the term "hearsay" refer to in a legal context?

• Evidence based on what the witness heard from others

• A formal objection by the defense

• The final decision of the jury

• A statement made by the judge

Answer explanation

In a legal context, "hearsay" refers to evidence based on what the witness heard from others, rather than what they personally experienced. This makes it generally inadmissible in court, as it lacks direct knowledge.

Who is responsible for maintaining order in the courtroom?

• The judge

• The prosecutor

• The bailiff

• The defense attorney

Answer explanation

The bailiff is responsible for maintaining order in the courtroom, ensuring that proceedings run smoothly and that all participants adhere to courtroom rules.

The judge in a trial-by-jury is the person who...

• rules a courtroom

• decides innocence or guilt

• accuses the defendant

The jury will...

• decide innocence or guilt

• rule the courtroom

• record what happens in the courtroom on a special typewriter

The defendant is...

• the person who accuses someone else of a crime

• the person who has been accused of a crime

• the judge in a courtroom