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When an adult is accused of a crime, the steps from arrest to the end of the trial can be a long process that takes many months or years. Today’s activity will help you to understand the steps in the process.

Activity: Create a graphic organizer showing both phases of the steps in the adult criminal justice system.

Directions:

You may choose Image 1, Image 2, or Image 3, or you may design your own flow chart/graphic organizer that shows both phases of the Adult Criminal Justice System.
Complete the image by drawing, labeling, and representing both phases of the Adult Criminal Justice System.
Include color in your image.
Include 3 pictures in your image.
Your image should clearly explain both phases of the Adult Criminal Justice System. The steps should be easy to follow and show your understanding of the process. An example has been provided for you. (See Below)
Include a brief explanation (in paragraph form). How does the graphic organizer you created show the steps in the Pre-Trial and Trial phases of the Adult Criminal Justice System in Georgia?
don't worry about the pictures just show me the steps

1 answer

Here is a detailed outline of the steps in both the Pre-Trial and Trial phases of the Adult Criminal Justice System in Georgia, which you can use to create your graphic organizer.

Graphic Organizer Structure:

Title: Steps in the Adult Criminal Justice System

Phase 1: Pre-Trial Phase

  1. Arrest

    • Law enforcement detains the suspected individual based on probable cause.

  2. Booking

    • Personal information, details of the alleged crime, and fingerprints are recorded at the police station.

  3. Initial Appearance

    • The accused appears before a judge, who explains the charges and sets bail.

  4. Preliminary Hearing

    • A hearing is conducted to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.

  5. Indictment/Grand Jury

    • The case may be reviewed by a grand jury, which decides if there is sufficient evidence to formally charge the defendant.

  6. Arraignment

    • The defendant is formally charged and pleads guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

  7. Discovery

    • Both parties exchange evidence and information that will be presented at trial.

  8. Pre-Trial Motions

    • Defense may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges; hearings are held to address these motions.

Phase 2: Trial Phase

  1. Jury Selection

    • Jurors are selected through a process called voir dire to ensure an impartial jury.

  2. Opening Statements

    • Each side presents an overview of their case and what they intend to prove.

  3. Presentation of Evidence

    • Prosecution presents evidence and calls witnesses; the defense has an opportunity to cross-examine.

  4. Defense Case

    • The defense presents its own evidence and witnesses, if applicable.

  5. Closing Arguments

    • Each side summarizes their case and urges the jury to draw specific conclusions.

  6. Jury Deliberation

    • The jury discusses the case in private to reach a verdict.

  7. Verdict

    • The jury delivers the verdict (guilty, not guilty, or a hung jury).

  8. Sentencing (if guilty)

    • If the verdict is guilty, a separate hearing may occur to determine the sentence.

Brief Explanation:

The graphic organizer clearly outlines the step-by-step process of the Adult Criminal Justice System in Georgia by breaking it down into two distinct phases: the Pre-Trial Phase and the Trial Phase.

In the Pre-Trial Phase, the steps begin with the arrest and conclude with arraignment and pre-trial motions, showcasing the critical processes that ensure the accused is informed and has an opportunity to prepare for trial. The emphasis on each step reflects the importance of due process and the rights of the defendant.

The Trial Phase goes from jury selection to the verdict, illustrating how the judicial process unfolds in the courtroom. Each step is crucial in determining the outcome of the case and reflects the adversarial nature of the justice system. The inclusion of jury deliberation and sentencing emphasizes the judicial responsibilities and the serious consequences of a guilty verdict.

By visually representing these steps, one can easily understand the complexity and structure of the criminal justice process, highlighting the importance of each stage in ensuring fairness and justice.