click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
chapter 15
key terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| common law | a system of law based on precedent and customs |
| precedent | a ruling that is used as the basis for a judicial decision in a later similar case |
| statute | a law written by a legislative branch |
| plaintiff | a person or party filling a lawsuit |
| defendant | an individual or group being sued or charged with a crime |
| felony | a serious crime such as murder rape kidnapping or robbery |
| misdemeanor | a relatively minor offense such as vandalism or stealing inexpensive items |
| larceny | the unlawful taking away of another persons property with the intent never to return it |
| robbery | the taking of property from a persons possession by using force or treats |
| burglary | unlawful entry into any dwelling or structure |
| lawsuit | a legal action in which a person or group sues to collect damages for some harm that is done |
| tort | wrongful acts for which an injured party has the right to sue |
| libel | written untruths that are harmful to someones reputation |
| constitutional law | branch of law dealing with formation construction and interpretation of constitutions |
| stare decisis | |
| writ of habeas corpus | |
| bill of attainder | |
| ex post facto law | |
| due process of law | |
| search warrant | |
| double jeopardy | |
| grand jury | |
| plea bargaining | |
| bail |