Category: Going to Court
What Does Acquit Mean?
If a judge or jury decides to acquit you of a crime, it means that they find you not guilty. This does not mean, however, that you are innocent.
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What is a Juvenile Court?
Every state in the country has a juvenile court. They are created by state legislatures for youth charged with criminal offenses.
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Why Don’t Most Defendants Testify At Their Own Trials?
In general, most defendants don’t testify at their own criminal trials. But the decision whether to testify is always up to you.
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What Kind Of Discovery Is Available In A Criminal Case?
In a criminal case, defendants are usually entitled to discovery. However, states like Virginia have very limited rules.
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Am I Entitled To An Expert Witness In My Criminal Case?
A defendant in a criminal case is not entitled to an expert witness. But, if one is necessary, the judge should allow you to have one.
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Who Can You Call As A Witness In A Criminal Trial?
There are three types of witnesses in a criminal trial: a lay witness, an expert witness and a character witness.
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Can You Depose Witnesses In A Criminal Case?
You can depose witnesses in a criminal case, but it is not as common as it is in civil cases and often requires judge approval.
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How Long Can You Be Held In Jail Before You’re Arraigned?
You can be held in jail for up to 72 hours (and sometimes even longer) before you are arraigned in a criminal case.
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What is Insufficient Evidence?
Courts can dismiss charges against a defendant in a criminal case if there is insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution.
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What is a Bivens Action?
A Bivens action is a lawsuit against a federal government official who violates someone’s constitutional rights.
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