#1
Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
Fourth Amendment
ExplanationProtects individuals from unreasonable government intrusion by requiring a warrant based on probable cause.
#2
What is the 'presumption of innocence'?
A legal doctrine that presumes the defendant's innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
ExplanationPlaces the burden on the prosecution to prove guilt.
#3
What is the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine in criminal law?
Evidence obtained indirectly from an illegal search or interrogation is inadmissible.
ExplanationExcludes evidence derived from illegal actions to deter misconduct.
#4
What is the 'burden of proof' in a criminal trial?
The responsibility of the prosecution to prove the defendant's guilt.
ExplanationProsecution must convincingly demonstrate the defendant's culpability.
#5
What is the 'Miranda warning'?
A warning given by police to a suspect in custody, informing them of their rights.
ExplanationEnsures suspects are aware of their rights during custodial interrogation.
#6
What is the 'exclusionary rule' in criminal procedure?
A rule that excludes evidence obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights.
ExplanationDeters unlawful searches and seizures by excluding illegally obtained evidence.
#7
What is 'probable cause' in the context of search and seizure?
A legal standard that requires a reasonable belief that a crime has been or is being committed.
ExplanationNecessary justification for obtaining a search warrant or making an arrest.
#8
What is 'circumstantial evidence'?
Evidence that requires inference to establish its significance.
ExplanationIndirect evidence that implies a fact without directly proving it.
#9
What is 'hearsay' in the context of evidentiary rules?
Testimony given by a witness who did not directly observe the incident in question.
ExplanationLimits the use of secondhand information in court to maintain reliability.
#10
What is the 'chain of custody' in criminal law?
The documented list of individuals who have had possession of physical evidence.
ExplanationEnsures the integrity and reliability of physical evidence by tracking its handling.
#11
What is 'direct evidence' in the context of criminal trials?
Evidence that directly proves a fact without requiring any further inference.
ExplanationProvides clear and immediate proof of a specific fact in question.
#12
What is 'double jeopardy' in the legal context?
A situation where a defendant is tried twice for the same crime.
ExplanationProtects against multiple prosecutions for the same offense.
#13
What is the 'Brady Rule'?
A rule that requires prosecutors to disclose exculpatory evidence to the defense.
ExplanationMandates disclosure of evidence favorable to the accused.
#14
What is 'authentication' of evidence?
The process of ensuring that evidence presented in court is what it purports to be.
ExplanationEstablishes the credibility and reliability of presented evidence.