Weekly Assignment — The Trial Process Activity Details ✓ Solved

Weekly Assignment—The Trial Process Activity Details As yo

There are several stages to a trial process. Once a crime is reported, the police begin to investigate, collect evidence, and report evidence to the prosecutor. The involvement of the police continues from the beginning of a case to its end. Imagine you are an officer at your local police station. Your supervising officer assigns you to a prestigious unit that receives special projects, including education development.

As your first project, you are assigned the task of creating and presenting a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation concerning the trial process to new recruits at the police academy.

Step 1: Research and develop a plan for the trial process using information from both the textbook and the Argosy University online library resources. Make sure that the terms pertaining to your state criminal court system are present in your Microsoft PowerPoint presentation.

Step 2: Create a 10- to 15-slide Microsoft PowerPoint presentation describing the local criminal trial process from the beginning to the end. Give thought to the difference between the misdemeanor and the felony processes. In addition, differentiate between the defendant's choice of taking a case to a trial or as a plea. Discuss why a defendant may want to consider a plea instead of continuing with the trial. Explain possible penalties, sentences, and alternative programs available to the defendant.

Step 3: Include speaker notes to explain the contents of each slide including more research and information. Direct your speaker notes to your audience (for example, you may tell recruits that they may have to testify at the preliminary hearing and inform them what the judge would consider).

Step 4: After completing the assignment, save the presentation.

Paper For Above Instructions

The trial process is a fundamental aspect of the criminal justice system, representing the culmination of various legal and procedural steps that occur after a crime is reported. This paper aims to outline the stages of the trial process, focusing on both misdemeanor and felony cases, while examining the defendant's choices between going to trial or accepting a plea deal. By providing a structured overview, this paper serves as a resource for new recruits in police training, enabling them to understand their role within the framework of the law.

Understanding the Trial Process

When a crime is committed, the trial process begins with the police investigation. Officers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and compile reports that are handed over to the prosecutor. This step ensures that there is adequate evidence to support potential charges against a suspect (Miller, 2020). The investigation phase is crucial as it lays the groundwork for the legal proceedings that follow.

Stages of the Trial Process

The trial process can be broadly divided into several key stages:

• Arrest: Following a preliminary investigation, if sufficient evidence exists, law enforcement will arrest the suspect.
• Arraignment: The defendant appears in court to hear the charges against them and to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
• Pretrial Proceedings: This includes discovery, motions, and hearings that prepare both sides for trial.
• Trial: The trial phase involves the presentation of evidence by both the prosecution and defense, followed by jury deliberation, if applicable.
• Verdict: The judge or jury returns a verdict of guilty or not guilty.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, the defendant is sentenced based on the severity of the crime.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Trials

Misdemeanor and felony trials differ significantly in terms of severity and consequences. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses and typically result in lighter sentences, such as fines or short jail terms (Friedman, 2021). In contrast, felonies are more serious crimes that can lead to lengthy prison sentences or significant fines. The trial process for felonies is usually more complex, often involving more extensive pretrial procedures and jury trials.

Defendant’s Choices: Trial vs. Plea Bargaining

At any point in the trial process, a defendant may choose to accept a plea deal. A plea deal involves the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or other concessions (Harris, 2019). There are several reasons why a defendant might choose a plea over going to trial:

• Certainty of Outcome: Entering a plea may ensure a more predictable sentence, whereas a trial involves the risk of conviction and harsher penalties.
• Time and Resources: Trials can be lengthy and costly. Accepting a plea often saves time and reduces legal fees.
• Negotiated Terms: Plea bargains can result in lighter charges or sentences, which can lead to better post-conviction outcomes.

Potential Penalties and Alternative Programs

The penalties associated with guilty verdicts can vary widely based on the nature of the crime. For misdemeanors, penalties often include fines, community service, or probation (Robinson, 2018). For felonies, sentences can range from several years of imprisonment to life sentences. Additionally, alternative programs may be available, such as diversion programs for first-time offenders, which aim to rehabilitate rather than punish (Smith, 2022).

Conclusion

Understanding the trial process is essential for new recruits in law enforcement. The police play a pivotal role from the investigation through trial and sentencing stages. By grasping the distinctions between misdemeanors and felonies, as well as the implications of choosing to go to trial versus accepting a plea, recruits will be better prepared to navigate their responsibilities within the criminal justice system.

References

• Friedman, L. (2021). Criminal Law: Cases and Comments. New York: West Academic Publishing.
• Harris, A. (2019). Plea Bargaining: Strategies and Dilemmas. Chicago: American Bar Association.
• Miller, S. (2020). The Criminal Trial: From Arrest to Verdict. Los Angeles: Sage Publications.
• Robinson, M. (2018). Understanding Criminal Law. Boston: Pearson.
• Smith, J. (2022). Rehabilitation and Alternative Sentencing. Washington, D.C.: National Institute of Justice.
• Cohen, A., & Curley, J. (2020). Criminal Justice: A Brief Introduction. New York: Routledge.
• Goldstein, H. (2021). Criminal Procedure: Law and Practice. Northport: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
• Schmalleger, F. (2019). Criminal Law. Upper Saddle River: Pearson.
• Sadler, M. (2020). Understanding Plea Bargaining. Albany: State University of New York Press.
• York, M. (2018). Decision Making in Criminal Cases. San Diego: Cognella Academic Publishing.