Criminal Defense Terms and Definitions

Admissible evidence Evidence which can legally and properly be used in court. Search warrant An order issued by a judge or magistrate commanding a sheriff, constable, or other officer to search a specified location. Tort An injury or wrong committed, either with or without force, to the person or property of another, for which civil liability may be imposed. Bench warrant An order issued by the court for the arrest of a person Allegation The assertion, declaration, or statement of a party to an action, made in a pleading, establishing what the party expects to prove. Abstract of record A short, abbreviated form of the case as found in the record. Subpoena An official order to appear in court (or at a deposition) at a specific time. Failure to obey a subpoena to appear in court is punishable as a contempt of court. Accessory A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact. Fourteenth Amendment Among other matters, the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property without adequate due process. Burglary The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft.

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	Did You Know?
	There are 3 basic types with standard of proof There are essentially three standards of proof applicable in most court proceedings. In criminal and delinquency cases, the offense must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the highest standard. In civil cases and neglect and dependency proceedings, the lowest standard applies by a mere preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not). In some civil cases, and in juvenile proceedings such a permanent termination of parental rights, an intermediate standard applies: proof by clear and convincing evidence.