Victorian Court Hierarchy and the Jurisdiction of the Courts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the Victorian Court Hierarchy and the jurisdiction of various courts.

Hierarchy

A system of authority involving ascending ranks.

Jurisdiction

The range and extent of the power and authority of a legal body, such as a court, limited by geography or subject matter.

Committal hearing

A preliminary hearing held in the Magistrates' Court to determine if there is sufficient evidence for a case to go to trial.

Bail

Legal permission for a person charged with a crime to be released from custody, usually under strict conditions.

Precedent

A legal principle established in a previous case that must be followed by lower courts in future cases.

Appellate function

The authority of a court to hear appeals from lower courts.

Indictable offenses

Serious criminal offenses that typically require a trial by jury.

Summary offenses

Less serious criminal offenses, often handled in the Magistrates' Court without a jury.

Civil cases

Legal disputes between individuals or entities, typically involving monetary compensation.

Criminal cases

Legal proceedings against individuals accused of committing crimes.