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Statute
Federal laws established by the US Congress.
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Felony
A serious crime which may be punished by a heavy fine and/or imprisonment or even death.
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Misdemeanor
A lesser offense, punishable by a small fine and/or a short jail term.
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Who determines all penalties for Federal crimes?
US Congress
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What is a Grand Jury?
Formail device by which a person can be accused of a serious crime.
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How many people on Grand Juries have to be present in order to conduct business?
16
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What is the difference between a "No Bill" and a "True Bill"?
- Indictment is called a "True Bill".
- If the jury finds insufficient probable cause then it is a "No Bill".
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Indictment
A formal complaint before a grand jury which charges the accused with one or more crimes.
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Arraignment
- The defendent is read the charges filed against them and is advised of their rights.
- The defendent enters a plea of not guilty or guilty.
- A trial day is set.
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After the arraignment, how many days is it before the trial takes place?
Within 70 days from the defendent's first appearance in court.
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What is a plea agreement?
An agreement between the prosecutor and the defense attorney/defendent.
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What are the options when guilt is decided?
- - Incarceration in a Federal prison
- - Probation
- - A fine
- - Restitution
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The defendant can appeal the sentence or the finding of guilt within how many days of the sentence?
Within 10 days from the date the sentence was imposed.
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What is an affidavit?
A written declaration setting out the statement of a witness for court proceedings.
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What is probable cause?
The standard where a police officer has the authority to make an arrest, conduct a personal or property search, or to obtain a warrent.
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What is a federal magistrate?
Judges appointed to assist US district court judges in the performance of their duties.
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What is another name for a trial jury?
Petit Juries
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How many people are on a criminal jury?
12
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How many people are on a civil jury?
6 - 12
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What is guilt beyond a reasonable doubt?
The standard of proof required in most criminal cases.
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What is meant by deliberation?
A jury in a trial in court discusses the findings of the court.
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What is a hung jury?
A jury that cannot agree on a verdict.
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Original Jurisdiction
The power of a court to hear a case first, before any other court.
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Concurrent Jurisdiction
Power shared by federal and state courts to hear certain cases.
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Appellate Jurisdiction
The authority of a court to review decisions of inferior courts.
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Restitution
Compensaiton for a loss, damage, or jury.
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Supervised Released
Also known as parole, one is released but must check in with a parole officer.
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Due Process Clause
Part of the 14th amendment which guarantees that no state deny basic rights to its people.
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Adversary System
System of law that relies on the contest between each advocate representing his/her party's positions and involves an impartial person/group.
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Libel
False and malicious use of printed words.
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Slander
False and malicious use of spoken words.
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Aggravating Circumstances
Makes the crime more violent and calls for a harsher sentence.
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Mitgating Circumstances
Circumstances that call for mercy/leniency.
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Bail
A sum of money that the accused may be required to post as a guarantee that he or she will appear in court at the proper time.
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Capital Punishment
the death penalty
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