national district attorney association how to use visual aids

What is the purpose of the Lethal Weapon course?

The Lethal Weapon course is focused on assisting prosecutors to develop their knowledge and skills in trying these cases. A substantial portion of this four and a half day course involves presentations on crash reconstruction, technical investigation at the scene, and toxicology. The course also provides an advanced trial advocacy component in which participants receive a case file and participate in mock trial sessions where each of them conducts every stage of the trial. A unique feature of Lethal Weapon is the opportunity for prosecutors to conduct direct and cross-examinations of actual reconstructionists and toxicologists. Specifically, this course teaches prosecutors to:

What is the model curriculum for police?

This model curriculum is designed to jointly train police and prosecutors in the detection, apprehension and prosecution of alcohol and drug impaired drivers. This training is unique in two ways: (1) Experts in the fields of toxicology, optometry, prosecution and law enforcement designed and developed the curriculum; (2) Law enforcement officers and prosecutors are trained together by the experts in their respective disciplines. The training is the first of its kind to be developed nationally and is adaptable to all local jurisdictions.

What does HGN stand for in police?

A nationally recognized optometrist instructs police and prosecutors about the effects of alcohol and other drugs on an individual’s eyes, specifically, Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN).

What is the course for impaired driving?

Designed for law enforcement officers with a wide variety of trial testimony experience, this course includes discussion and instruction on all aspects of trial preparation and courtroom testimony in an impaired driving case. Experts in the fields of law enforcement and prosecution present the curriculum to law enforcement officers, allowing the participants to learn firsthand the challenges and difficulties in impaired driving cases. This course is designed to be taught in one day and includes a mock trial presentation, with optional direct and cross-examination exercises. However, additional potential topic areas are discussed throughout the Instructor Manual and may be implemented in the training course to expand the curriculum if so desired. Segments of this training include: