|
Misdemeanor
A minor offense, lower than a felony, which is punishable by a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine, but not prison. Misdemeanors are classified into three categories: Class A, B, and C.
Embezzlement
The fraudulent appropriation by a person to his own use or benefit of property or money entrusted to him by another.
Search warrant
An order issued by a judge or magistrate commanding a sheriff, constable, or other officer to search a specified location.
Miranda rule
The rule, pronounced in Miranda v. Arizona, that confessions are inadmissible in a criminal prosecution if the police do not advise the suspect in custody of certain rights before questioning.
Fifth Amendment
Among other rights, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a person cannot be compelled to present self-incriminating testimony in a criminal (or juvenile) proceeding.
Fraud
An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right.
Tort
An injury or wrong committed, either with or without force, to the person or property of another, for which civil liability may be imposed.
Manslaughter
A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter.
Subpoena
An official order to appear in court (or at a deposition) at a specific time. Failure to obey a subpoena to appear in court is punishable as a contempt of court.
Restitution
Court-ordered payment to restore goods or money to the victim of a crime by the offender.
|
Did You Know?