CJ 207 Project Two Template completed PDF

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Summary

Moving Through the Criminal Justice System
The criminal justice system has many steps, starting with arresting the suspect. Next the suspect goes through the process of arraignment which they are told the charges being brought against them. The defendant also has the option to plead guilty or ...

Description

CJ 207 Project Two Template Complete this template by replacing the bracketed text with the relevant information. Moving Through the Criminal Justice System The criminal justice system has many steps, starting with arresting the suspect. Next the suspect goes through the process of arraignment which they are told the charges being brought against them. The defendant also has the option to plead guilty or not guilty. Next is the pre-trial which is the court process of determining if the defendant is granted bail or not. During the trial both parties will argue their case, this is also when evidence will be presented to the court. Witnesses and experts will be cross examined during the trial as well. After the trial the jury will discuss the case and evidence and determine if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. If the person is found not guilty, they are released from custody and no further charges will be filed. If the defendant is found guilty, then they move to a sentencing hearing. That is when the defendant is told the number of years they will serve. Most of the time, the processing ends after the sentencing hearing and the defendant is transferred to a facility. But, after the sentencing hearing, there is a possibility of appeal. Alternative Processes and Impact Alternative Processes

Description of Process

Plea Bargains

Plea bargains tend to benefit both parties involved in the case. Typically, if a defendant pleads guilty to charges brought against them, they are offered short sentence or even a lesser charge. It helps keep the victims from feeling victimized again. When the offender admits to their wrong doings and takes responsibilities.

Restorative Justice Principles

Impact on Criminal Court System Its one way that prosecutors can avoid a trial.

It allows offenders to find restorative programs to help them, it gives them a fair chance after committing a crime.

Function of Juries Types of Cases

How This Jury Is Selected

Civil Cases

It is a jury summons, there is a list of potential individuals, and they choose from that list.

Criminal Cases

They are interviewed and asked specific questions to see if they are competent enough and the right fit for the case at hand.

Responsibility of This Type Of Jury The jury listens to the evidence presented during the trial and decides if the defendant is liable or not. They listen to the evidence given during trial, based on the evidence and facts of the case, the jurors work together to come up with a verdict of guilty or not guilty.

Impact of Specific Sentencing Guidelines Why Sentencing Guidelines Exist It gives judges a guideline to keep sentencing fair. It also goes by the seriousness of the crime and past criminal history. Examples of Sentencing Guidelines  If a criminal is busted for possession of drugs, and was near a place with children present, their sentence could potentially be higher.  A defendant who has committed multiple crimes would get a longer sentence because they would already have a record and the recommended sentencing would increase.  Based on the seriousness of a crime, the defendant could be known as a danger to society. The more serious the crime is, the more likely the sentence will be longer. Effects of Sentencing Guidelines  Reduced sentencing  Prevents racial disparities  [Optional: Insert example 3 effect.]...