TERMINOLOGY
A
Acquittal
When someone is found not guilty and cleared of criminal charges.
Arrested
Being taken into custody by law enforcement after a person is suspected of committing a crime. During an arrest, individuals are usually informed of their rights and may be booked, which involves recording their personal information and the details of the alleged offense.
C
Capital Murder
A type of murder that is punishable by death or life imprisonment without parole. It typically involves aggravating factors, such as the killing of a police officer, multiple victims, or the murder occurring during the commission of another serious crime, making it one of the most serious criminal offenses.
Cash Bond
A cash bond is when a defendant pays the full bail amount in cash to be released from jail while waiting for trial. The money acts as a guarantee that the defendant will return for court dates. If they show up and follow all conditions, they get the money back (minus any fees). If they miss court or break the rules, the money is forfeited, and they could be arrested again.
Conviction
When a person is found guilty of a crime by a judge or jury.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
When someone causes the death of another person by acting carelessly or failing to act in a way that a reasonable person would. The person does not intend to kill, but their negligence leads to a fatal outcome. In this type of case, the person is held responsible for not recognizing the risks their actions posed to others.
D
Deferred Adjudication
When a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, the judge delays the final judgment. The defendant must complete certain conditions like probation, and if successful, the case is dismissed. If they fail, the judge can convict and impose the sentence.
Detained
The temporary confinement of an individual by law enforcement for questioning or investigation. This can occur without formal charges and typically happens when officers believe the person may be involved in a crime or poses a risk to public safety.
Dismissal
When a case is dropped by the court and doesn’t go to trial.
Dismissed
When a case is dropped, and the charges are no longer pursued. This can happen for several reasons, like lack of evidence or procedural issues. Once a case is dismissed, the defendant is free, and the legal process ends without a conviction.
Disposed
When a criminal case has been resolved and is officially closed. This can happen through various outcomes, like a conviction, acquittal, dismissal, or plea deal. Once a case is disposed of, no further legal action is taken on it.
F
Found Not Guilty
After a trial, the jury or judge decides there is not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime. The defendant is cleared of the charges and is free from any legal punishment.
M
Manslaughter
A loss of life without premeditation.
Murder
The intentional and unlawful killing of another person with premeditation or malice aforethought. It is classified into degrees, such as first-degree murder, which involves planning, and second-degree murder, which occurs without prior intent, and it carries severe penalties.
N
Negligent Manslaughter
Causing someone’s death through careless or reckless actions without intent to kill.
No Bill
The grand jury did not find probable cause for the arrest. This means that the case will not proceed to trial unless another grand jury finds probable cause with additional evidence.
Null
Legal action or decision has no legal effect or is invalid. It is treated as if it never happened and holds no power in court.
P
Parole
Conditional release of a prisoner before they complete their full sentence. While on parole, the individual must follow specific rules and check in with a parole officer. If they violate these conditions, they can be sent back to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence.
Plea Deal
An agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or other benefit.
Police Officer
A sworn law enforcement professional responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and preventing crime. Their duties include patrolling, responding to emergencies, conducting investigations, and engaging with the community.
Probation
A court-ordered period of supervision in the community instead of serving time in jail or prison. During probation, the individual must follow specific rules set by the court, such as meeting with a probation officer, attending counseling, or completing community service. Violating these conditions can result in additional penalties or jail time.
Prostitution
The act of exchanging sexual services for money or something of value.
S
Solicitation of a Minor
Trying to get someone under 18 to engage in sexual activity, often through messages or offers.
T
Trafficking
The illegal trade or movement of people, drugs, or goods, often involving exploitation or force.
U
Unsatisfactory Termination of Probation
Happens when a person fails to meet the conditions of their probation, such as missing appointments or committing new offenses. This can lead to the court revoking probation and imposing a harsher sentence, like jail or prison time.
Unsecured Bond
A type of bail that allows a defendant to be released from jail without paying money upfront. They agree to pay a specified amount if they fail to appear in court, holding them financially accountable while awaiting trial.