Criminal Law Key Terms (Parole, Rehabilitation, Recidivism)

Vocabulary flashcards covering parole, rehabilitation, recidivism, and basic criminal law terms.

Parole

Conditional release from prison before the sentence ends, under supervision.

Rehabilitation

Programs aimed at reforming offenders so they can reenter society.

Recidivism

The act of a convicted offender committing another crime after release.

Crime

Any act or omission prohibited by law and punishable by the government.

Criminal law

Laws that define crimes, set punishment, and lay out rules for enforcement.

Felony

A serious crime (e.g., murder, robbery) punishable by more than one year in prison or death.

Misdemeanor

A less serious crime (e.g., petty theft, assault) usually punishable by fines or less than one year in jail.

Infraction

A minor violation (e.g., speeding) punishable by a fine, not jail.

Probable Cause

Reasonable grounds for believing a crime has been committed and that the suspect committed it.

Due Process

Legal requirements that the government must respect all rights owed to a person under the law.

Jurisdiction

A court's legal authority to hear a case.

Arrest

When a person is taken into custody by legal authority.

Bail

Money or conditions set to ensure a defendant returns for trial.

Arraignment

First court appearance where charges are read and the defendant pleads guilty or not guilty.

Plea Bargain

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

Trial

A formal examination of evidence to decide guilt or innocence.

Sentencing

The punishment given after a conviction.

Probation

Serving a sentence in the community under supervision, instead of jail/prison.