Vocab
The recording of details of the arrest, such as fingerprints and photos.
What is the booking?
This is when law enforcement takes a person into custody based on probable cause to begin criminal proceedings.
What is an arrest?
This process involves sharing evidence between the prosecution and defense to ensure fairness.
What is discovery?
This hearing occurs after a guilty verdict and determines punishment.
What is the sentencing hearing?
A request for a higher court to review a case for legal errors.
What is an appeal?
The jury selection process where attorneys question potential jurors.
What is Voir Dire?
During this first court session, charges are formally read to the defendant.
What is the initial appearance?
Written questions submitted to the opposing party that must be answered under oath.
What are interrogatories?
These reports prepared by probation officers detail the defendant’s background and help guide sentencing.
What are pre‑sentencing investigation reports?
This step begins the appeals process and must be filed shortly after sentencing.
What is the notice of appeal?
The legal process to remove a conviction from a criminal record.
What is expungement?
This formal hearing presents the charges and allows the defendant to enter a plea.
What is an arraignment?
This discovery tool involves oral questioning of witnesses under oath and is recorded by a court reporter.
What is a deposition?
This type of sentence allows an offender to remain in the community under supervision and with conditions.
What is probation?
This famous case established the right to an attorney for defendants who cannot afford one.
What is Gideon v. Wainwright?
The formal reading of charges and entering of a plea.
What is an arraignment?
This type of motion asks the court to decide a legal issue before the trial begins, such as whether evidence can be used.
What is a pre‑trial motion?
These requests compel parties to turn over evidence such as emails, contracts, or photographs.
What are requests for documents?
This factor—often delivered by someone harmed by the crime—can influence how severe the sentence will be.
What is a victim impact statement?
A court may choose one of these three actions on appeal: keep the ruling, overturn it, or send it back.
What are affirm, reverse, or remand?
The formal declaration that the defendant is not guilty.
What is an acquittal?
This negotiation process allows a defendant to receive a reduced sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
What is plea bargaining?
These specialized reports are created by professionals to explain complex technical issues in a case.
What are expert reports?
These guidelines help ensure consistency in federal sentencing by assigning levels based on crime severity and history.
What are the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines?
This 1966 Supreme Court case required police to inform suspects of their right to remain silent and right to an attorney.
What is Miranda v. Arizona?