List 3 rights defendants have in the adult criminal system.

Question

Name 2 steps in the justice system you understand.

Name 1 step in the justice system you still have questions about.

Answer 1

Three Rights Defendants Have in the Adult Criminal System

1. Right to an Attorney: Defendants have the right to legal representation, and if they cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for them (Miranda v. Arizona).

2. Right to a Fair Trial: Defendants have the right to a public trial by an impartial jury within a reasonable time frame, ensuring that their case is heard fairly and openly.

3. Right to Remain Silent: Defendants have the right to refuse to testify or provide self-incriminating evidence against themselves, as protected by the Fifth Amendment.

Two Steps in the Justice System

1. Arraignment: This is the step where the defendant is formally charged and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest) to the charges against them.

2. Trial: In this step, evidence is presented before a judge or jury, and witnesses may be examined and cross-examined to determine the defendant's guilt or innocence.

One Step in the Justice System with Questions

• Sentencing: I am curious about how judges determine appropriate sentences and what factors they consider, such as mitigating or aggravating circumstances, prior convictions, and the nature of the crime.