#1
Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to a fair and speedy trial?
Sixth Amendment
ExplanationEnsures defendants' rights to a prompt and impartial trial.
#2
What is the purpose of bail in the U.S. legal system?
To ensure the defendant's appearance at trial
ExplanationSecures the defendant's release with a financial guarantee of court attendance.
#3
What is 'probable cause' in the context of search and seizure?
A reasonable belief that a crime has been or is being committed
ExplanationSufficient reason based on facts to believe a crime has occurred.
#4
What is 'pro bono' work in the legal profession?
Legal work provided free of charge or at a reduced rate
ExplanationLegal services offered voluntarily without charge or at a reduced cost.
#5
What is the purpose of the 'plea bargain'?
To resolve a case without going to trial
ExplanationNegotiated agreement between prosecution and defense to resolve a case.
#6
What does 'bail' refer to in the context of criminal law?
A release of the defendant from custody pending trial, secured by a certain amount of money
ExplanationTemporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, often with financial conditions.
#7
What does 'habeas corpus' mean in legal terms?
A writ to bring a person before a court
ExplanationLegal action to challenge unlawful detention or imprisonment.
#8
What is 'mens rea' in criminal law?
The guilty mind
ExplanationRefers to the mental state or intention to commit a crime.
#9
What is the role of a grand jury in the U.S. legal system?
To issue an indictment if there's enough evidence for a trial
ExplanationDetermines whether there's enough evidence to proceed to trial.
#10
What is the 'burden of proof' in a criminal trial?
The responsibility of the prosecution to prove guilt
ExplanationObligation to prove the accused's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
#11
What is the 'Miranda warning'?
A cautionary warning given to individuals before they are interrogated
ExplanationNotification of rights before custodial interrogation.
#12
What is the purpose of 'voir dire' in jury selection?
To question potential jurors to ensure impartiality
ExplanationProcess to assess the suitability of jurors for a fair trial.
#13
What is the exclusionary rule in the U.S. legal system?
Evidence obtained illegally cannot be used in court
ExplanationBars illegally obtained evidence from being admitted in court proceedings.
#14
What does 'voir dire' refer to in a criminal trial?
The process of jury selection and questioning
ExplanationProcess of selecting an impartial jury through questioning.
#15
What does 'double jeopardy' refer to in the context of criminal law?
Being tried twice for the same crime
ExplanationProtection against being prosecuted for the same offense after acquittal or conviction.
#16
What is 'strict liability' in criminal law?
Liability regardless of intent or negligence
ExplanationImposes legal responsibility irrespective of fault or intent.
#17
What does 'amicus curiae' mean?
A legal brief submitted by a non-party with an interest in the outcome of the case
ExplanationLegal submission by a non-party offering expertise or perspective.
#18
What is the concept of 'reasonable doubt' in criminal trials?
A doubt that is based on reasonable evidence
ExplanationStandard of proof requiring a logical and rational uncertainty.