The accused must be given a public and speedy trial before an impartial jury, known as the petit jury, consisting of twelve men from the district wherein the crime was committed. The decision must be unanimous before a verdict can be rendered. The accused is given a copy of the indictment in which the nature of the accusation is clearly set forth and is granted time in which to prepare for his defense. Equally just and significant are the provisions that he shall be confronted by the witnesses against him, may compel the attendance of witnesses in his favor, and may employ counsel for his defense. In case he is not able to pay for his own counsel, the judge appoints one whose services are paid for out of the public treasury. If the verdict has been rendered by a jury and the judgment pronounced, the accused cannot be again brought to trial on the same charge.
SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTIONS AND REFERENCES.
1. What are the names of the members of the Supreme Court at present? Congressional Directory.
2. How large is the district in which your home is located? Who are the judges? Congressional Directory.
3. Under what conditions may a case be appealed from the supreme court of the State to the United States Supreme Court? Bryce, American Commonwealth, I, 228-230 (232-234).
4. How is the fact that conflicts between the authority of the Federal and the State courts do not arise, accounted for? Bryce, I, 234-235 (238).
5. Are the United States Courts influenced in their decisions by politics? Bryce, I, 259-261 (265-267).
6. Define treason and the punishment therefore. Constitution, Art. III, Sec. 3, Clauses 1 and 2. See Government in State and Nation, 268, 269.
7. Describe the influence of John Marshall as Chief Justice.
(a.) John Marshall, American Statesmen Series, Chapters X and XI.