Criminal Adjudication Review

A collection of vocabulary flashcards to aid in studying key terms and concepts related to criminal adjudication.

Hot Arrest

An arrest made by police who are responding to a crime they were not already investigating.

Proactive Investigation

Circumstances where police are aware of possible criminal activity and begin an investigation, often leading to securing a search warrant.

Charge

The formal accusation made by the prosecution, typically requiring an indictment.

Arraignment

A court proceeding in which the accused is formally notified of the charges and asked to enter a plea.

Plea Bargaining

An agreement in which the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence.

Sentencing Enhancement

An increase in a defendant’s sentence based on prior convictions.

Right to Counsel

The constitutional right of a defendant to have legal representation.

Grand Jury

A secret panel of jurors that reviews evidence and decides whether to bring criminal charges.

Probable Cause

The standard of proof required for an arrest or the issuance of a warrant.

Double Jeopardy

The legal principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense.

Discovery Obligations

The requirements for prosecutors to disclose evidence favorable to the accused.

Collateral Review

A procedure for challenging the legality of a conviction after direct appeal avenues have been exhausted.

Effective Assistance of Counsel

The constitutional guarantee that defendants have the right to competent legal representation.

Critical Stage

A point in the criminal process where the presence of counsel is necessary to protect the defendant's rights.

Caveat

A warning or proviso of specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations (in context: a reminder regarding the outline's completeness).

Sentencing Guidelines

Rules that set forth a uniform sentencing range for specific offenses.

Miranda Rights

The rights of a suspect being interrogated by law enforcement, including the right to remain silent.

Bail Reform Act of 1984

Federal legislation aimed at changing the policies on bail and pretrial detention, emphasizing community safety and flight risk.

Compulsory Process Clause

Part of the Sixth Amendment guaranteeing a defendant's right to obtain witnesses in their favor.

Trial by Jury

The constitutional right to have a jury determine guilt or innocence in criminal prosecutions.