Administrative Law
What is a license in the context of administrative law?
A formal permission or authorization granted by a competent authority that allows someone to do something otherwise illegal.
What does it mean to be an eyewitness?
A person who saw the incident that is under investigation.
What is an arraignment?
The first step in a criminal proceeding where the defendant hears the charges and enters a plea.
What is a lawsuit?
A civil legal action brought by a plaintiff seeking a remedy from the court.
What is the meaning of "charge" in a criminal case?
A formal statement accusing someone of a crime.
What is the difference between a regulation and a law?
A regulation is a rule made by a governmental agency to control conduct, while a law is established by a legislature and applies more broadly.
What is an expert witness?
A professional who provides an opinion based on expertise in the facts of the case.
What is a plea bargain?
A deal between the accused and the prosecutor where the accused pleads guilty to a lesser charge for a lighter sentence.
What does the term "due process" refer to?
Legal proceedings carried out according to established rules and principles to protect individual rights.
What does "acquit" mean?
To declare someone not guilty of a crime.
What is compliance in administrative law?
Compliance refers to adhering to rules, regulations, and directives set by governmental agencies.
What defines a hostile witness?
A witness who does not support the calling party's case.
What is the purpose of a pre-trial hearing?
To discuss and resolve issues such as evidence and witnesses to prepare for the trial.
What is an appeal?
A request to a higher legal authority to review a decision made by a lower court.
What is a "sentence" in a legal context?
The punishment given by a judge to someone found guilty.
What is bureaucracy in the context of government?
Bureaucracy refers to a formal, hierarchical organization with many levels, where tasks and responsibilities are delegated among offices or departments.
What are the key factors that determine a witness's credibility?
Consistency, clarity, body language, and potential bias or motives.
What is discovery in legal proceedings?
The process where lawyers share case-related documents with the opposing side before the trial begins.
What does it mean to settle a case?
To resolve a lawsuit without going to trial, usually through negotiation.
What is the purpose of a "mistrial"?
A trial that is declared invalid due to a significant error or issue.
Define "disciplinary actions" in administrative law.
A formal process to address behavior that falls short of expectations or violates rules.
What is a friendly witness?
A witness expected to favor the position of the calling party, often due to a prior relationship
Define a "hung jury."
A jury that cannot agree on a verdict.
Define "damages" in a legal context.
Compensation awarded by a court for loss or injury caused by another party.
What does it mean to "jeopardize" something?
To put something at risk of harm or failure.