Intro to Criminal Trials

What is the main purpose of a criminal trial?

• To decide if the accused is guilty or not guilty

• To select a jury

• To determine the punishment for a crime

• To present evidence to the media

In a jury trial, who decides the verdict?

• The defense attorney

• The prosecutor

• The judge

• 12 citizens

What is the process of selecting a jury called?

• Arraignment

• Subpoena

• Habeas corpus

• Voir dire

Who conducts voir dire in federal criminal trials?

• The jury

• The judge

• The prosecutor

• The defense attorney

What is a peremptory challenge?

• A limited challenge without needing a reason

• A challenge based on race

• A challenge with unlimited use

• A challenge requiring a reason

Who presents their opening statement first in a criminal trial?

• The jury

• The prosecution

• The judge

• The defense

What is the burden of proof in a criminal trial?

• On the prosecution to prove guilt

• On the defense to prove innocence

• On the judge to decide the case

• On the jury to find evidence

What happens if the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision?

• The case is dismissed

• The judge decides the verdict

• The defendant is automatically found guilty

• A hung jury is declared

What is the purpose of the closing argument?

• To introduce new evidence

• To summarize the evidence presented

• To question the witnesses

• To select the jury

Who decides the sentence if the defendant is found guilty?

• The jury

• The defense attorney

• The prosecutor

• The judge