Criminal Investigation: Case and Trial Preparation

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of an investigation?

To gather evidence for a trial

To write a detailed report of the incident

To identify and apprehend the person(s) inspected of violating the laws of the state and the community (correct)

To prove the suspect's guilt in a court of law

When should preparation for trial begin?

When the officer receives the radio call that results in the arrest (correct)

When the investigation is complete

When the suspect is taken into custody

When the officer arrives at the crime scene

What is the main goal of a trial?

To prove the suspect's innocence

To determine whether or not the individual being tried did in fact commit the offenses as charged (correct)

To sentence the suspect to the maximum punishment

To dismiss the case due to lack of evidence

What is the importance of proper courtroom demeanor?

It is essential for being a successful witness Signup and view all the answers

Why is every call handled anticipating eventual court testimony?

Because every investigation can (and hopefully will) lead to a trial or hearing Signup and view all the answers

What is the scope of the section on criminal investigation?

To prepare for trial and courtroom demeanor Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid doing when addressing the defendant or their attorney?

Glaring at them Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of reviewing the report before testifying?

To ensure you have all the facts correct Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to identify your physical evidence in court?

Because it was properly marked and documented during the investigation Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mistake that can lead to failure as a witness?

Feeling superior to everyone in the courtroom Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the courtroom observation requirement for recruits?

To observe and learn from experienced officers and attorneys Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to respond to harsh cross-examination with firmness and politeness?

To avoid being perceived as immature or unprofessional Signup and view all the answers

When should preparation for trial begin?

When receiving the radio call from the dispatcher Signup and view all the answers

What is an important step in conducting a good preliminary investigation?

Taking a complete set of original notes Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to properly preserve evidence?

To avoid contamination of evidence Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before the trial date?

Review the police report and personal notes Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of courtroom demeanor?

Maintaining good eye contact and speaking clearly Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to speak the truth on the witness stand?

To avoid perjury charges Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when unable to remember something on the witness stand?

Say 'I do not recall' Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid doing during cross-examination?

Showing bias towards the defendant Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of conducting a thorough preliminary investigation?

To build a strong case Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to review photographs of the defendant?

To refresh your memory Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Case and Trial Preparation

Preparation for trial begins when an officer receives a radio call, and every call should be handled anticipating eventual court testimony.
Proper preparation for trial is synonymous with proper case preparation, which starts at the initial stages of an investigation.

Preparation Steps Prior to Trial

Conduct a good preliminary investigation, including taking detailed and complete notes, collecting and preserving evidence, and documenting spontaneous statements and witness statements.
At the police station, interview witnesses, complete and preserve notes, and write a clear and concise report.
Before the trial date, refresh your memory from the police report and personal notes, check evidence, and discuss the case with the prosecutor.

Courtroom Demeanor

Be on time, as tardiness can lead to case dismissal, and be neat and conservative in appearance.
Conduct yourself in a professional manner, maintaining good eye contact and speaking clearly and distinctly.
On the witness stand:
- Sit erect and comfortable, without slouching.
- Direct your attention to the person asking the questions and maintain good eye contact.
- Speak clearly and distinctly, and pause before answering.

Successful Witness Guidelines

Review the facts in the case before testifying, and confer with the prosecutor before trial.
Be honest and tell the truth, even if it's not pleasant, and do not volunteer information or express opinions unless requested.
Identify physical evidence, and be able to explain it in court.
Respond to harsh cross-examination with firmness and politeness.

Common Causes of Failure as a Witness

Poor attitude, feeling superior to everyone in the courtroom.
Poor preparation, including writing a bad report, and lacking professionalism throughout the investigation and courtroom process.
Poor appearance, conveying a negative image to the judge, jury, and onlookers.

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Description

Learn about proper case preparation and courtroom demeanor, including preparation steps and tips for being a successful witness. This lesson covers key objectives for effective trial preparation.