7.12 Conclusion
As seen in this chapter the courts is one of three main branches of the U.S. criminal justice system. By examining the structure and role of the courts within the system and the requirement of jurisdiction we have learned more about how it functions. An overview and understanding of court traditions, jurisdictions, roles, and practices were tied to basic understanding and an introduction to the entire system.
7.12.1 Learning Objectives
- Describe how a crime/criminal case proceeds from the lowest level trial court up through the U.S. Supreme Court. (i.e., students should understand the hierarchy of the federal and state courts).
- Describe the function and selection of state and federal trial and appellate judges in the American criminal justice system.
- Discuss the function and selection of state and federal prosecutors in the American criminal justice system.
- Explain the role of the criminal defense attorney in the American criminal justice system and at what stage a court-appointed attorney may be needed.
- Discuss Crime Prevention Science (CPSc) Solutions and how this impacts the effectiveness and efficiency of the courts DEI goals.
7.12.2 Review of Key Terms
- appeals of right
- appellant (petitioner)
- appellate courts
- appellee (respondent)
- bench trial
- case
- court of last resort
- court-appointed attorney
- courtroom workgroup
- courts
- courts of general jurisdiction
- courts of limited jurisdiction
- defense lawyers
- dual court system
- jurisdiction
- jury trial
- majority opinion
- opinions – concurring, dissenting, per curiam, plurality
- original jurisdiction
- petition for the writ of certiorari (rule of four)
- petitions for writs of habeas corpus
- principle of orality
- prosecutor
- standard of review
- trial courts
- U.S. Court of Appeals
- U.S. District Courts
- U.S. Magistrate Courts
- U.S. Supreme Court
7.12.3 Review of Critical Thinking Questions
Now that you’ve read the chapter, answer these questions to assess how much you’ve learned:
- Knowing what happens at trial and what happens on appeal, would you be more interested in being a trial judge or an appellate judge? Why?
- Why is there a different standard of review for questions of fact and questions of law?
- Do you agree that cases should be overturned only when there was a fundamental or prejudicial error that occurred during the trial?
- Do you think it is easier to be a defense attorney than a prosecutor believing the defendant is guilty but knowing that the justice system has violated the defendant’s rights?
- Should the defendant ever waive the assistance of counsel?
- Is there any position as a court staff that particularly interests you? Why?
7.12.4 Licenses and Attributions for Conclusion
“Conclusion” by Sam Arungwa is licensed under CC BY 4.0.