The Criminal Justice System 7th Grade Civics Miss Smith *pgs. 388-392

The Role of the Police Criminal Justice System- three- part system consisting of the police, courts, and corrections used to keep the peace and bring criminals to justice

The Police Prevent crime and protect our rights Arrest those who violate laws

Police Arrests Probable cause- witnessing of a crime or gathering of evidence that enables a police officer to make an arrest Arrest warrant- authorization by the court to make an arrest

Preliminary Hearing Held soon after the accused’s arrest Judge must decide if there is enough evidence to send the case to trial If not, the judge can dismiss the case Judge decides whether to set bail

Grand Jury and Indictment Before a defendant can be tried, a formal charge must be made Grand jury hears the evidence to decide if there is enough for a trial If they find probable cause, the defendant is indicted (formally charged with the crime)

Arraignment Arraignment- when a defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty to the charge If they plead guilty, no trial is needed

Acquit- act of the jury finding a defendant not guilty Trial Acquit- act of the jury finding a defendant not guilty

Sentencing If the defendant is found guilty, the judge decides on the punishment, or sentence

Plea Bargaining Plea bargain- act by the defendant to plead guilty to a lesser offense than the original charge in order to receive a lighter penalty

Punishing Lawbreakers Imprisonment Parole- Early release on the condition that they obey certain rules Usually granted to prisoners who behave well and show signs of rehabilitation Capital Punishment- the death penalty