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Opinion
A formal written explanation by a judge or a panel of judges of the court’s decision in a case.
Majority Opinion
The opinion that is shared by the majority of justices in a case, setting forth the final judgement.
Concurring Opinion
An opinion written by a justice that agrees with the outcome of a case but for different reasons.
Dissenting Opinion
An opinion written by a justice who disagrees with the majority’s decision.
Stare Decisis
The doctorine that courts should follow precedent when making rulings.
Judicial Review
The power of the court to review laws and deem them unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution.
Certiorari
When the supreme court agrees to hear a case form the lower court.
Brief
Written documents by a party as for why the court should rule in their favor.
Amicus Curiae
Briefs submitted by parties that are not directly involved in the case.
Oral Argument
A scheduled session where lawyers present their arguments before justices.
Rule of Four
At least four justices must agree to hear a case for it to be granted cert.
Judge
The official who presides over a court trial or hearing.
Lawyer
Attorney/Counsel: A professional who represents clients in legal matters.
Prosecutor
A lawyer who represents the government in criminal cases.
Defense Attorney
A lawyer who represents the accused party in criminal trials.
Plaintiff
The party bringing the lawsuit in a civil case.
Defendant
The party being accused or sued.
District Court
First trial court in the federal system.
Court of Appeals
A higher court that reviews decisions made by lower courts.
Supreme Court
The highest court in the US, which has final say.
State Court
Courts that handle cases involving state laws.
Federal Court
Courts that deal with interstate disputes or federal law.
Trial
A formal examination of evidence and legal arguments in front of a judge.
Hearing
A session in court where arguments and evidence is presented informally.
Verdict
The decision reached by a judge or jury in a trial.
Sentence
The punishment or penalty given to the guilty party at the end of a trial.
Burden of Proof
The obligation to prove ones assertion.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
The standard of proof required in criminal cases for the defendant to be found guilty.
Preponderance of Evidence
One sides evidence being more convincing than the others.
Double Jeopardy
A person cannot be tried again for the same crime.
Probable Cause
Resonable grounds for an arrest or search.
Complaint
The formal legal document that begins a civil lawsuit.
Indictment
A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
Subpeona
A legal document ordering someone to attend court or provide evidence.
Motion
A formal request made to the court for a specific ruling or action.
Appeal
A formal request for a higher court to review the decision of a lower court.
Bail
Money or property given as a security to ensure that the defendant will appear in court.
Jury
A group of citizens who are selected to hear evidence and grant a verdict.
Contempt of Court
Behavior that disrespects or defies the authority of the court.
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