with Correct Answers
What occurs during a first appearance in court? - Answer- The accused hears
allegations, is advised of their rights, and pretrial release is determined.
What is an arraignment? - Answer- A formal reading of the charges where the accused
is notified of their rights and can enter a plea.
What is a plea bargain? - Answer- An agreement where the prosecutor offers a lesser
charge or reduces the number of charges.
What is the difference between a guilty plea and a non-guilty plea? - Answer- A guilty
plea admits to the crime, while a non-guilty plea denies committing the crime.
What is the purpose of a preliminary hearing? - Answer- To determine the extent of the
evidence after a not guilty plea.
What is the difference between legal guilt and factual guilt? - Answer- Legal guilt is
determined by the jury or judge, while factual guilt refers to whether the defendant
actually committed the crime.
What are mitigating and aggravating factors in sentencing? - Answer- Mitigating factors
lessen the severity of a crime, while aggravating factors increase it.
What is the purpose of a presentence investigation report? - Answer- To gather
information on the defendant's background and circumstances for sentencing.
What is intermediate sentencing? - Answer- A system where offenders receive a range
of sentences, allowing for judicial discretion.
What is the difference between concurrent and consecutive sentences? - Answer-
Concurrent sentences are served simultaneously, while consecutive sentences are
served one after the other.
What are the three types of courts in the U.S.? - Answer- Local/county, state, and
federal courts.