22 Questions
When should an officer start preparing for a trial?
When the officer first receives the radio call
What is the primary purpose of an investigation?
To identify and apprehend the person(s) suspected of violating the laws of the state and the community
What is the main goal of a trial or hearing?
To determine the guilt of the accused
What should an officer anticipate during every call?
Eventual court testimony
What is covered in the case and trial preparation section?
The preparation steps that should be taken prior to trial date
What is the main objective of the case and trial preparation section?
To prepare the case for trial
What is the recommended term to use when referring to the person on trial?
Defendant
Why should you review the facts in the case before testifying?
To refresh your memory and provide accurate information
What should you do if you don't know the answer to a question while testifying?
Say 'I don't know'
When should an officer begin preparing for a trial?
When receiving the radio call from the dispatcher
What is a common mistake that can lead to failure as a witness?
Feeling superior to everyone in the courtroom
What is the primary purpose of a well-written police report?
To show no weaknesses in the case
What is the purpose of touring the Jefferson County Courthouse and observing courtroom proceedings?
To learn about courtroom procedures and etiquette
Why is it important to protect the evidence at the scene of the crime?
To ensure it is properly marked and labeled
Why is it important to maintain a good appearance and posture while testifying?
To make a good impression on the judge and jury
What should an officer do if they are unable to remember a detail during the trial?
Say 'I do not recall'
What is the purpose of a defense attorney's cross-examination?
To protect the client's rights and make the state prove its case
Why is it important for an officer to maintain good eye contact during the trial?
To show confidence and professionalism
What should an officer do during the direct examination?
Be pleasant, but not over-friendly, and pause before answering
Why is it important for an officer to be on time for the trial?
To avoid being disciplined by the department
What is the primary purpose of reviewing photographs of the defendant before the trial?
To refresh the officer's memory
What is an important aspect of an officer's courtroom demeanor?
Maintaining a professional and respectful attitude
Study Notes
Case and Trial Preparation
- Preparation for trial begins when an officer first receives the radio call that results in the arrest and subsequent court testimony.
- Proper case preparation is synonymous with preparation for trial.
- The primary purpose of an investigation is to identify and apprehend the person(s) suspected of violating the laws of the state and the community.
On-Scene Preparation
- Conduct a good preliminary investigation.
- Take a careful and complete set of original notes and save them.
- Note spontaneous statements, dying declarations, and witnesses' statements carefully.
- Protect the evidence and gather all of it correctly.
At the Police Station
- Interview witnesses if necessary and complete and properly preserve your notes.
- Properly mark and package evidence.
- Write a good, clear, and concise report.
Prior to Trial
- Refresh your memory from the police report and personal notes.
- Check all evidence to ensure it is properly preserved, labeled, and identifiable.
- Review photographs of the defendant to refresh your memory.
- Confer with the prosecutor to review facts in the case and discuss questions that you must prepare to answer.
Courtroom Demeanor
- Be on time, as tardiness may result in the case being dismissed.
- Be neat and conservative in appearance.
- Conduct yourself in a professional manner.
- On the witness stand:
- Sit erect, comfortable, and without slouching.
- Direct your attention to the person asking the questions.
- Maintain good eye contact.
- Speak clearly, distinctly, and loudly enough.
- Tell the truth at all times.
Successful Witness
- Review the facts in the case before testifying.
- Confer with the prosecutor before trial.
- Don't volunteer information or express opinions unless requested to do so by the court.
- Be able to identify your physical evidence.
- Always tell the truth, even if it is not pleasant.
- If you don't know the answer, say "I don't know."
- Respond to harsh or nasty cross-examination with firmness but be polite and courteous.
Main Causes for Failure as a Witness
- Poor attitude (feeling superior to everyone or being out to get the defendant).
- Poor preparation (throughout the entire investigation and courtroom process).
- Poor appearance (conveying a poor image to the jury/judge).
Learn about the proper case preparation and courtroom demeanor in criminal investigations. This quiz covers the preparation steps to take before a trial and the keys to being a successful witness.
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