Glossary

Grant by the court, which assures someone will not face prosecution in return for providing criminal evidence.

An attack on the credibility (believability) of a witness, through evidence introduced for that purpose.

Requirement to take a chemical test when arrested for driving under the influence.

In chambers, or in private. A hearing in camera takes place in the judge's office outside of the presence of the jury and the public.

In the manner of a pauper. Permission given to a person to sue without payment of court fees on claim of indigence or poverty.

Arrests and filed cases going to court in which there has not been a release on bond or by other means.

That which, under the rules of evidence, cannot be admitted or received as evidence.

To confine in jail.

A special kind of executor, permitted by the laws of certain states, who perfoms the duties of an executor without intervention by the court.

A sentence of imprisonment to a specified minimum and maximum period of time, specifically authorized by statute, subject to termination by a parole board or other authorized agency after the prisoner has served the minimum term.

A formal charging document issued by a grand jury to the court, that the named person committed a specific offense.

Needy or improverished. A defendant who can demonstrate his/her indigence to the court may be assigned a court-appointed attorney at public expense.

A formal charging document issued by the State Attorney, that the named person committed a specific offense.

A violation of law not punishable by imprisonment. Minor traffic offenses generally are considered infractions.

A state tax on property that an heir or beneficiary under a will receives from a deceased person's estate. The heir or beneficiaty pays this tax.

In criminal law, the hearing at which a judge determines whether there is sufficient evidence against a person charged with a crime to hold him/her for trial. The Constitution bans secret accusations, so initial appearances are public unless the defendant asks otherwise; the accused must be present, though he/she unually does not offer evidence. Also called first appearance.

The first court appearance of a defendant on a charge.

Writ or order by a court prohibiting a specific action from being carried out by a person or group. A preliminary injunction is granted provisionally, until a full hearing can be held to determine if it should be made permanent.

Judge's explanation to the jury before it begins deliberations of the questions it must answer and the applicable law governing the case. Also called charge to the jury.

Nonphysical items such as stock certificates, bonds, bank accounts, and pension benefits that have value and must be taken into account in estate planning.