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Chap. 16
Term | Definition |
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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 | The 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 to the plaintiff |
Prosecution | A 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 state's written criminal law |
Parole | Permission to grant a prisoner an early release from prison, with certain restrictions |
Mandatory Sentencing | A 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 | The statement a witness makes under oath |
Cross-examine | To question a witness at a trial or 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 who is not yet legally an adult |
Juvenile Delinquent | A child or teenager who commits a serious crime or repeatedly breaks the law |
Equivalent | To be alike or equal to in number or meaning |