Procedure in Criminal Actions (USA Law)

What is the first step in a criminal prosecution?

• Arraignment

• Indictment or Information

• Arrest

The purpose of a grand jury is to:

• Determine guilt or innocence

• Issue an indictment

• Set bail

What is the formal charge against a defendant called?

• Complaint

• Indictment or Information

• Summons

At what stage of the criminal process does the defendant enter a plea of guilty or not guilty?

• Arraignment

• Preliminary hearing

• Trial

What is the purpose of a preliminary hearing?

• To determine guilt or innocence

• to determine if the prosecution has enough evidence to go to trial.

• To negotiate a plea deal

What is the role of the defense attorney in a criminal case?

• To prove the defendant's guilt

• To protect the defendant's rights and present a strong defense

• To assist the prosecution

It describes the standard that a party seeking to prove a fact in court must satisfy to have that fact legally established:

• Preponderance of the evidence

• Clear and convincing evidence

• burden of proof

Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy trial?

• Sixth Amendment

• Fifth Amendment

• Fourth Amendment

What is the role of the jury in a criminal trial?

• To determine the law

• To determine the facts and render a verdict

• To sentence the defendant

What is a plea bargain?

• An agreement between the prosecution and defense to settle a case

• A request for a new trial

• An appeal to a higher court