click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
chapter 16
key terms
Term | Definition |
---|---|
complaint | a formal notice that a lawsuit is being brought |
summons | a notice directing someone to appear in court to answer a complaint or a charge |
discovery | process by which attorneys have opportunity to check facts and gather evidence |
settlement | in a legal case the amount of money the defendant agrees to pay the plaintiff |
prosecution | party who starts the legal proceedings against another party for a violation of the law |
crime | an act that breaks a law and causes harm to people or society in general |
penal code | a states written criminal laws |
parole | to grant a prisoner an early release from prison with certain restrictions |
mandatory sentencing | punishment that judges must impose according to what the law directs |
arraignment | a hearing in which a suspect is charged and pleads guilty or not guilty |
testimony | a statement a witness makes under oath |
cross-examine | to question a witness at a trial or a hearing to check or discredit the testimony |
acquittal | a vote of not guilty |
hung jury | a jury that cannot agree on a verdict |
juvenile | a person not yet legally an adult |
juvenile delinquent | a child or teenager who commits a serious crime or repeatedly breaks the law |
rehabilitate | to correct a persons behavior |