Certain Characteristics of the Defendant Are Often Considered by Jurors

question 21

Multiple Choice

Certain characteristics of the defendant are often considered by jurors. For example, Phillip is a known thug and gang member. He was on trial for the death of a priest that he ran over while evading police. In this case, it is likely that Phillip will receive a verdict that would be _____ if he had killed a fellow gang member.

• A) more harsh than
• B) less harsh than
• C) not as harsh as
• D) He would receive the same sentence for both crimes.

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Definitions:

Stress Hormones

Hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, that are released into the body in response to stress, affecting the body's metabolism and immune response.

Epinephrine

A hormone and neurotransmitter also known as adrenaline, crucial for the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, and elevating blood sugar levels.

Adrenal Gland

Small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney that produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which help control blood sugar, burn protein and fat, react to stressors like a major illness or injury, and regulate blood pressure.

Psychophysiological Illness

Illnesses that are caused by or exacerbated by mental processes such as stress, rather than by organic or purely physical processes.