Reading Assignment for Section 5.3

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 5.3: Pretrial Process.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you will learn about the crucial steps taken by both the prosecution and defense during the pretrial phase of a criminal case. You will explore the concept of pretrial release, including when it may be granted or denied. Additionally, you will understand the practice of plea bargaining, the process of jury selection, and the differences between grand juries and petit (trial) juries. Finally, you will examine the steps involved in processing a case through juvenile court.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 5.3

• SLO 1: List and describe the steps typically taken by both the prosecution and defense in the pretrial phase.
• SLO 2: Explain the concept of pretrial release and the circumstances under which it may be denied.
• SLO 3: Discuss the practice of plea bargaining and why it is a necessary part of the criminal justice process.
• SLO 4: Describe the jury selection process.
• SLO 5: Compare and contrast the workings of a grand jury with a petit (trial) jury.
• SLO 6: List and describe the steps typically taken in processing a case through juvenile court.