Juvenile Court Basics Flashcards
Felony?
Very Serious Charges
Witnesses?
Either side can have them and they are considered evidence.
Court Reporter?
He or She records everything said in court
Defendant?
The person charged with the crime.
Guilty or Responsible Plea?
Gives away your rights.
What does the Judge do?
- Decides Guilt or Innocence
- Makes attorneys play by the rules
- Punish liars
- Protect your rights
- Determine consequences
No contest Plea
Confused??
Don’t Know??
Gives away your rights
Decision Types
- Not Guilty
- Responsible
- Dismissed
Trial or Adjudication
Opening Statements
At the trial or adjudication each attorney tells a story of what happened
Presents Evidence
At the trial or adjudication
- Each attorney tries to prove the story and evidence and witnesses are presented
Closing Arguments
At the trial or adjudication
- Each attorney will argue that they proved their story
Dismissed with Prejudice
You cannot be tried again for the crime
Dismissed without Prejudice
The charge can come back
Not Guilty Plea
You are claiming your innocence
Miranda Rights
When you are detained (arrested)
- Remain Silent
- Anything you say can be used against you
- Talk to a lawyer before and during questioning
- Have an attorney appointed if you cannot afford one
Attorneys (Lawyers/Counsel)
ONE WILL WORK FOR DEFENDANT
(YOU)
ONE WILL WORK FOR THE STATE (PROSECUTOR)
Defense Attorney
- WORKS FOR THE DEFENDANT
- HE OR SHE CAN BE A PUBLIC DEFENDER
- TRIES TO PROVE THAT YOU ARE NOT GUILTY
Prosecutor
WORKS FOR THE STATE
TRIES TO PROVE THAT YOU ARE GUILTY
Disposition (Sentencing) Hearing
Punishment / Consequences
Physical Evidence
Misdemeanor
MINOR CHARGES -
Hitting or kicking someone
Threatening to hit or kick someone
Drawing on a wall or desk
Shoplifting
Punching a hole in a wall
Confidentiality
Kept between you and your attorney
Probation Officer
Keeps track of your behavior while you are on Probation
Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)
A special attorney who looks after your needs
Housing, Care, and helps with welfare
Court Clerk
Swears in Parties
Stores Evidence
Schedules Hearings
Bailiff
Makes sure everyone behaves in the courtroom
Jury
This is not available in Juvenile Court
Types of Evidence
- Physical Evidence (objects)
- Testimonial Evidence (Testimony by Witnesses)
Verdict
Made by the judge n juvenile court.
Made by the Jury in Adult court.
Plea
This is your answer to whatever the charge(s) is/are.
There are four types
Probation consequences
May include:
- Go to School
- Get a Job
- Be Home @ Certain TImes
- Don’t Fight with Parents
- Avoid Certain People
- Drug Screen/Test
- Be in a Treatment Program
- Live in a Group Home
- Do Community Service
- Obey Curfew
Your Rights
- Plead Not Guilty
- Remain Silent
- Have Trial
- Confront Witnesses
- Present Evidence
Adjudication Hearing
The Trial
Incorrigibility
A Status Offense (only juveniles are arrested for these)
- Truancy
- Running Away From Home
- Curfew
- Liquor/Drug Possession/Use
- Not Following Reasonable Parental Rules
