Lesson 1: Building the Foundation
Handout 6

Which Court?

Directions: Work with a family member. Read each statement. Does the statement describe an action in a trial court or an appellate court? Circle T for trial court or circle A for appellate court. Write a brief rationale to support your choice.

T A 1. Chantille testifies that the bank robber pointed a gun at the teller.
T A 2. Five judges listen to lawyers argue their case.
T A 3. The jury decides that it was the restaurant’s fault that Omar got sick.
T A 4. Monica asks the court to set aside the decision giving her ex-husband custody of their children.
T A 5. Ms. Ebony, the attorney, argues to the judges that her client should win the case.
T A 6. The court grants a defendant a new trial based on newly- available DNA testing.
T A 7. Mr. Doster, the witness, swears to tell the truth.
T A 8. A car’s damaged fender is admitted as evidence.
T A 9. A decision signed by five judges finds that a jury member should have been disqualified.