Definitions

Definitions

In the previous chart there were several new terms that need to be defined:

• Arraign: to formally read to an accused the charge(s) that he or she must face.
  

• Charge to the jury: a talk a judge gives to the jury before it retires for deliberation in which the judge discusses evidence and explains relevant law.
  

• Directed verdict: a verdict of acquittal that a judge instructs a jury to reach if the Crown doesn't prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
  

• Rebuttal evidence: evidence given in order to counter evidence presented by the other side.
  

• Surrebuttal evidence: evidence given in order to counter rebuttal evidence.
  
  
  

Here are a few more terms you should be familiar with:

• Circumstantial evidence: indirect evidence; for example, evidence given by a person who didn't actually witness the event.
  

• Direct evidence: evidence given by a person who actually witnessed the event. 

• Examination-in-chief : the first examination of a witness during a trial.

• Hung jury: a jury in a criminal trial that cannot agree on a verdict.