Studies in Civics by James T. McCleary
page 35 of 508 (06%)
page 35 of 508 (06%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
of the prosecution, upon oath, "in relation to any matter connected with
such charge which may be deemed pertinent." Rights of Accused.--The accused has a right to have witnesses in his behalf, and to have the aid of counsel, who may cross-examine the witnesses for the prosecution. The Result.--If it appears upon examination that the accused is innocent of the crime, he is discharged. If his guilt seems probable, he is held to await the action of the grand jury. In the case of some offenses bail may be accepted. But if no suitable bail is offered, or if the offense is not bailable, the accused is committed to jail. Material witnesses for the prosecution may be required to give bonds for their appearance at the trial, or in default thereof may be committed to jail. Reports.--The justice makes a report of the proceedings in the examination, and files it with the clerk of the court before which the accused is bound to appear for trial. PROCEEDINGS FOR PREVENTING CRIME. Prefatory.--But it is better to prevent crime than to punish it. Indeed, one reason for punishing wrongdoers is that the fear of punishment may deter people from committing crime. Proceedings.--As a conservator of the public peace, then, a justice may require persons to give bonds for good behavior. The preliminary proceedings are similar to those in the case of a trial--the complaint, warrant and return. But the complainant simply alleges upon oath, that a |
|