Notes on Legal System Presentation

Introduction

• Presented by James from engVid
• Focus on two parts of the legal system:
  • Encountering the police (arrest)
  • Going to court (trial process)

Key Terms

Arrest and Court

• Arrest: When the police say you've done something wrong.
• Going to court: "You have your day in court" means you can't go to jail without a fair trial.

Handcuffs

• Usually seen on arrested individuals.
• Represents the connection between arrest and court appearance.

Hearing vs. Trial

• Hearing:
  • Preliminary process before a judge to determine if the case should proceed.
  • Judge listens to both sides (defendant and police).
• Trial:
  • If the case proceeds, a full trial occurs.
  • Involves a judge and lawyers (defense and prosecution).

Legal Roles

• Judge:
  • Presides over court proceedings, uses a "gavel" to announce decisions.
• Lawyer/Attorney:
  • Represents the defendant (defense lawyer) and the government or victim (prosecution).

Verdict and Sentencing

• Verdict: Decision made by the judge (guilty or innocent).
• Guilty:
  • Convicted of a crime, potential jail time.
• Innocent:
  • Charges are dropped, defendant is free to go.

Sentencing Process

• If found guilty, the judge announces a sentence (length of time in jail).
• Terms:
  • Sentence: Period of incarceration.
  • Convicted: If sentenced, the individual is labeled a convict.

Appeal Process

• Appeal:
  • If convicted, the defendant can request a review of the case.
  • Can lead to potential dropping of charges or confirmation of the sentence.

Criminal vs. Convict

• Criminal: Someone who has committed a crime but may not have been convicted.
• Convict: Someone who has been found guilty and served time in prison.

Important Differences in Legal Systems

Canada vs. USA

• Misdemeanor: Minor crime, usually leads to fines.
• Felony: Serious crime, can lead to significant jail time.
  • Canada:
    • Misdemeanor: Less than 2 years in provincial jail.
    • Felony: More than 2 years (federal prison).
  • USA:
    • Felonies result in serious sentences; three strikes rule can lead to life sentences.

Quiz Section

Sample Questions

1. The judge gave her __________: Verdict or Judgment.
2. In Canada you go to federal prison if your sentence is ____ ____ ____ ____ ____: Two years plus a day.
3. If the charges are dropped you will be __________: Released.
4. The person who helps you in court is your __________: Lawyer.

Conclusion

• Encourage learning more English through www.engvid.com
• Thank you for attending the lesson.