The document provides an overview of the court system in the United States, including the structure and functions of federal and state courts. It discusses the roles of judges as adjudicators, negotiators, and administrators. The document also examines the roles of prosecutors and their discretion in charging decisions. It describes methods of providing legal counsel to indigent defendants, including public defenders. Finally, it introduces the concept of a courtroom workgroup comprising the regular participants within the criminal justice system.
The document provides an overview of the court system in the United States, including the structure and functions of federal and state courts. It discusses the roles of judges as adjudicators, negotiators, and administrators. The document also examines the roles of prosecutors and their discretion in charging decisions. It describes methods of providing legal counsel to indigent defendants, including public defenders. Finally, it introduces the concept of a courtroom workgroup comprising the regular participants within the criminal justice system.