What happens at General Sessions Court?
What happens at General Sessions Court?
The General Sessions Court is a court of limited jurisdiction. The General Sessions Court has the authority to dispose of misdemeanor cases but only has jurisdiction to conduct a preliminary hearing where felony charges are involved. A bench trial in General Sessions Court does not involve a jury.
What kind of cases are heard in General Sessions Court?
In Indian cities, the Sessions Court is responsible for adjudicating matters related to criminal cases. The court is responsible for cases relating to murders, theft, dacoity, pick-pocketing and other such cases.
What happens at the first appearance in court?
1. Initial Appearance – This is the defendant’s first appearance in court, and the defendant is advised of the charges. The judge appoints an attorney if the defendant cannot afford one. The judge—or at the defendant’s request, a jury—can hear evidence on the charges and find the defendant guilty or not guilty.
How should a witness be on the stand?
VICTIM WITNESSRefresh Your Memory. Before you testify, try to picture the scene, the objects there, the distances and exactly what happened. Speak In Your Own Words. Appearance Is Important. Speak Clearly. Do Not Discuss the Case. Be A Responsible Witness. Being Sworn In As A Witness. Tell the Truth.
Can witnesses refuse to testify?
If you refuse to come to the Court as a witness you may be served with a subpoena. It is an offence to disobey a subpoena. If you do not come to Court you may be arrested. You may also be charged with contempt.
Can I say I don’t remember in court?
Lawyers may also tell witnesses that if they don’t remember certain events, they can simply say “I don’t recall.” In general, such instructions are not improper. A witness cannot, however, repeatedly answer “I don’t recall” to avoid truthfully answering questions.
What happens if you don’t want to testify?
In some cases, a witness who refuses to testify after being served with a subpoena could face contempt charges and be subjected to certain criminal penalties, including fines and even jail time. (A subpoena is a court order directing a witness to appear and give evidence in a court proceeding).
