Introduction To The Courts Flashcards
What are some things the Courts do?
Justice, conflict resolution, protect individual rights and liberties, punish, rehabilitate, deter crime, policy making
What are the stages of the federal courts?
- District courts 2. Circuit court of appeals 3. Supreme Court of the US
What are the stages of state courts?
- Trial courts of limited jurisdiction 2. Trial courts of general jurisdiction 3. Intermediate court of appeals 4. Appellate court of last resort
Which level of court handles constitutional issues at the state level?
Supreme Court
What are some types of problem-solving courts?
Drug, domestic violence, juvenile, substance abuse, etc.
Who are the three actors part of the courtroom workgroup?
Judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys
What are ways one becomes a judge?
Partisan election, nonpartisan election, governor appointment, legislature appointment, merit selection
What are some things a judge does?
Sufficient evidence to proceed with case, set bail, accept pleas, bench trials, jury instruction, sentencing
What are the two types of prosecutors?
U.S. attorneys and district attorneys
What are some things prosecutors do?
Decide whether to prosecute, charges brought against the defendant, plea bargain decisions, recommend sentences, recommend bail
What are the goals of a defense attorney?
- Protect the innocent from being falsely convicted 2. Uphold the Constitution 3. Keep prosecutors honest
What are some things defense attorneys do?
Provide advice in interrogations, seek pretrial release, challenge arrests and charges, seek bail reductions, file pretrial motions, seek procedural errors, trial defense, appeal
How quickly must the initial appearance occur after arrest?
Within 48 hours
Which process determines if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case?
Grand jury
What occurs at the arraignment?
Charges read, enter plea
