Monthly Archives: September 2021
Does The Prosecution Have To Disclose Their Witness List To The Defense Before Trial?
In a Florida criminal trial, the prosecution is not allowed to ambush the defense with “surprise” witnesses. To the contrary, the state’s criminal procedure rules require prosecutors to disclose the names of any witnesses they plan to call at trial. This includes identifying any “expert” witnesses who may be used to explain certain technical… Read More »
Does A Jury Have To Make All Of The Factual Findings In A Criminal Case?
The right to a jury trial in criminal cases includes the right to have that jury determine all factual issues related to the elements of the crime. In a 2013 decision, Alleyne v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court made it clear that this includes “any fact that increases the mandatory minimum” sentence for… Read More »