Justice Navigator

Key People in the Courtroom

The Defendant

This is the person who is accused of breaking the law. In the U.S. justice system, a defendant is considered "innocent until proven guilty." This means it is the government's job to prove you did something wrong, not your job to prove you are innocent.

Defense Attorney

This is your lawyer, who is on your side. Their main job is to protect your rights and make sure the police and the prosecutor follow the rules. They will speak for you in court, give you advice, and challenge the evidence against you. They do not have to prove that you are innocent. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the court must give you one for free (a "public defender").

Prosecutor (or District Attorney / DA)

This is the lawyer who works for the government (sometimes called "the People" or "the State"). Their job is to use evidence and witnesses to try and prove to a judge or jury that the defendant broke a specific law. They decide what charges to bring against the defendant.

The Judge

The judge acts as a neutral referee in the courtroom. Their job is to make sure both sides follow the law and the court procedures. The judge does not take sides. They make decisions about the evidence, listen to legal arguments, and, if there is no jury, will decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. The judge also decides the sentence if a defendant is found guilty.

The Jury

A group of people from the community who listen to the evidence from both the prosecutor and the defense. Their job is to decide the facts of the case and to make a final decision on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Their decision must be unanimous (everyone must agree). Not all cases have a jury.

First Steps in a Case

Arrest

This is when the police take you into custody because they believe you broke the law.

Arraignment

This is your first time going to court after an arrest. The judge will tell you what the charges are (what law they say you broke), and you will say if you are "guilty" or "not guilty." This is called entering a plea.

Bail

The judge might decide to set bail. This is money you pay to the court to get out of jail while you wait for your trial. You get the money back after your case is over. Sometimes, the judge will let you go without bail (this is called "released on your own recognizance").