Law & Legal system Notes

Prosecutor

the state or federal government's attorney in a criminal case 

Defendant

The person against whom a claim is being made, the person being charged with committing a crime

Felony

 Crimes such as murder or robbery that result in more than one year in prison 

Misdemeanor

Crimes like simple assault or minor theft that result in one year or less in prison

Burden of Proof

obligation of a party to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims or defenses- The party making the claim bears the responsibility for presenting evidence to support their position

Civil Action

A lawsuit that can be brought by a person who feels wronged or injured by another

Plaintiff

The injured party who brings legal action against the wrongdoer

The defendant in a civil case is

The one being sued

The defendant in a criminal case is

The one being accused of a crime

Trial Courts

Courts in which both sides present evidence & a decision is made on a disputed case

Voir Dire

Jury selection process

Removal for cause

Removing a juror and telling the judge why

Peremptory challenge

Removal of a juror without stating a reason