Order in the court

In the criminal court system there are certain procedures that must always be followed. Once a person is arrested for a crime, it is up to our court system to determine whether the individual is guilty or innocent. In this program, a variety of legal experts take us through pretrial and trial procedures, pointing out along the way the differences between adult and juvenile proceedings. Judges and lawyers navigate us through the pretrial process, beginning with the establishment of probable cause and formal charging by grand jury or preliminary hearing. Indictment, pretrial release, bail, and arraignment are also discussed. The entire courtroom process is explored from plea bargaining and trial by jury to the adversary system of direct examination, cross-examination, and rebuttal. Such concepts as an alibi, burden of proof, and reasonable doubt are clearly explained. Finally, the panel of experts comments on a sentencing hearing and punishment, along with the defendant's constitutional right to appeal.