Acquittal

A legal judgment that a criminal defendant has not been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. An acquittal means the defendant is free of the charges in that case.

Admissible Evidence

Evidence deemed valid and relevant by the court, allowed to be presented to the judge or jury during a trial.

Arraignment

The first formal proceeding in a criminal case where the defendant is informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).

Bail

A sum of money or other form of security posted by a defendant, or on their behalf, to ensure their return to court for future hearings. If the defendant appears as required, bail is typically refunded.

Burden of Proof

The obligation of a party (usually the prosecution in criminal cases) to prove its claims to a certain standard—most often, “beyond a reasonable doubt.”

Conviction

A formal declaration by a jury (or judge in a bench trial) that a defendant is guilty of the charged offense(s).

Defendant

The individual, company, or institution against whom a lawsuit or criminal charge is brought. In criminal cases, the defendant is the person accused of committing a crime.

Discovery

The pre-trial phase where both sides exchange information about evidence and witnesses. Discovery can include depositions, document requests, and other investigative methods.

Evidence

Any information, documents, or objects presented in court to prove or disprove facts related to a case. Common forms include witness testimony, physical objects, photographs, and expert analyses.

Felony

A serious criminal offense typically punishable by a prison sentence of more than one year, significant fines, or both. Examples include assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and homicide.

Grand Jury

A group of citizens convened to review evidence presented by the prosecution and determine whether there is probable cause to issue an indictment for a felony charge.

Habeas Corpus

A legal principle meaning “you have the body.” It allows a person to challenge the legality of their imprisonment or detention and can be used to ensure one is not held without lawful cause.

Indictment

A formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence for the defendant to be tried for the alleged crime.

Misdemeanor

A criminal offense considered less severe than a felony, typically punishable by up to one year in county jail, smaller fines, or both. Examples include some DUI charges and petty theft.

Motion

A formal request made to a court for a specific ruling or order. Common motions include motions to dismiss, motions to suppress evidence, and motions for a new trial.

Plea

The defendant’s formal response to criminal charges—usually “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” A plea is made during the arraignment process or later in plea negotiations.

Probation

A court-imposed sanction that allows a convicted person to remain in the community instead of serving time in jail or prison, under specific conditions and supervision.

Prosecutor

An attorney who represents the government in criminal cases, responsible for presenting evidence to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Subpoena

A legal order compelling an individual to appear in court or provide evidence (documents, records) relevant to a case.

Trial

The formal court process where evidence is presented before a judge or jury to determine a defendant’s guilt or innocence. It typically includes opening statements, witness testimonies, cross-examinations, and closing arguments.

Verdict

The decision made by a judge or jury on the issues of fact in a case—most commonly “guilty” or “not guilty” in a criminal trial.

Warrant

A legal document issued by a judge or magistrate authorizing law enforcement to perform certain actions, such as making an arrest or conducting a search.