NCJ Number
112900
Date Published
1987
Length
408 pages
Annotation
This first of two volumes of the New York State Basic Course for Prosecutors XII covers 11 topics relevant to prosecutorial functions.
Abstract
A lecture outline on the prosecution function covers the prosecutor's changing role, prosecutorial discretion, ethical responsibilities and considerations, and civil liability. This is followed by a presentation of the American Bar Association standards on the prosecution function. The prosecutor's role in affirming crime victims' rights is discussed in another paper. A review of local criminal court accusatory instruments considers categories of such instruments; grounds for a motion to dismiss an accusatory instrument; and amending, superseding, and refiling an accusatory instrument. Instruction in the preliminary hearing addresses the purpose and conduct of the hearing, the defendant's right to a speedy preliminary hearing, and the disposition of a felony complaint after a preliminary hearing or waiver. Other topics covered in separate sections are the grand jury procedure, the law governing indictments and bills of particulars, voir dire, opening statements, and direct examination and cross-examination. For volume II of the course, see NCJ-112901.