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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 |