Criminal Defense Terms and Definitions

Admissible evidence Evidence which can legally and properly be used in court. Manslaughter A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter. Circumstantial evidence All evidence of an indirect nature. Testimony not based on actual personal knowledge or observation of the facts in controversy. Assault A willful attempt to illegally inflict injury on or threaten a person. 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. Abstract of record A short, abbreviated form of the case as found in the record. Fraud An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right. Burglary The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft. Search warrant An order issued by a judge or magistrate commanding a sheriff, constable, or other officer to search a specified location. Fourth Amendment The 4th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects every person against unreasonable search and seizure by government officials.

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	Did You Know?
	Plea Bargaining - a process whereby the prosecutor and defense attorney negotiate Process whereby the prosecutor and defense attorney negotiate a mutually satisfactory disposition of the case. The court and the defendant must approve of any settlements. For example, a guilty plea may be exchanged for a lesser charge or a sentencing recommendation, or for dismissal of one or more of the charges in a multi-count information, or for dismissal of another case.