| Term |
Definition |
| defendant |
The party against which an action is brought. |
| prosecutor |
One that initiates and carries out a legal action, especially criminal proceedings. |
| jury |
A body of persons sworn to judge and give a verdict on a given matter, especially a body of persons summoned by law and sworn to hear and hand down a verdict upon a case presented in court. |
| opening arguments |
The beginning of the trial where each attorney makes a statement about the case |
| closing arguments |
At the end of the trial where each attorney sums up the case |
| testify |
To make a declaration of truth or fact under oath; submit testimony: witnesses testifying before a grand jury. |
| defense attorney |
The lawyer representing the defendant |
| prosecuting attorney |
A government official who conducts criminal prosecutions on behalf of the state |
| "The Bench" |
Refers to the judge and where he sits |
| expert witness |
A witness with experience in a specific area who testifies (both sides can provide their own witnesses) |