⚡ Legal Issues

Burden of Proof Witness Credibility

📋 Case Facts

  • Cookies disappeared from Cookie Owner's lunchbox.
  • Accused Student had crumbs on their shirt.
  • Witness saw Accused near the cubbies.

👥 Witnesses

👤
Cookie Owner Accuser
Plaintiff/Prosecution

Statement

I brought my favorite cookies to school. At lunch, they were gone! I saw crumbs on Alex's shirt. Those were MY cookies!

Key Facts to Establish

  • Brought cookies
  • Cookies missing
  • Saw crumbs

Potential Weaknesses

  • Didn't see Alex take them
  • No video
👤
Accused Student (Alex) Defendant
Defense

Statement

Cookie Owner said I could have one yesterday! I thought they were for me today too. They said "help yourself!"

Key Facts to Establish

  • Claims permission
  • Prior sharing

Potential Weaknesses

  • Has crumbs
  • No other witness to permission

📜 Jury Instructions

The jury must decide:

  • Did Alex take the cookies without permission?
  • Should Alex say sorry and share their snack?