NCJ Number
193745
Date Published
1998
Length
35 pages
Annotation
This booklet and CD-ROM presents a scenario where the viewer plays the role of an assistant district attorney in charge of the investigation and prosecution of a case of first-degree murder.
Abstract
This scenario follows the actual preparation and trial of a murder case, aiming to give the viewer a concrete experience of the process of investigating and prosecuting a criminal case. The prosecution of the case proceeds in three stages: investigation of the crime; preparation of the case against the criminal defendant; and the trial of the case. In the investigation of a case, the aim is to gather all of the evidence needed to prove a case of first degree murder against a defendant. Evidence consists of statements by witnesses to the incident and others who have relevant information about it, and of documents and other pieces of physical evidence that help prove the crime. Time must be used wisely or the viewer will be unable to prove the case. In preparing for the trial, it is necessary to get an indictment stating that there is enough evidence to go to trial. The indictment sets out the charge against the defendant and the elements that the prosecution must prove in order to convict the defendant. The viewer decides which testimony to elicit from each witness and researches the law to determine rules of evidence. In presenting testimony, it is the duty of the prosecutor to prove to the jury that the defendant is guilty. The evidence that is presented is the only evidence the jury will take into account. After the prosecutor’s case is presented, the defense attorney will move the court to dismiss the case against the defendant. If the judge denies the motion to dismiss, the defense attorney must present the case for the defendant. When the defense rests its case, the judge will present the case to the jury for its verdict of guilty or not guilty. A score on the strength of the case and efficiency of time is given.