Glossary of Terms

ACQUITTAL

The decision of a judge or jury that the defendant is not guilty of the crimes alleged.

ADMISSION TO SUFFICIENT FACTS

An admission by the defendant that there is sufficient evidence to warrant a finding of guilty.

CHANGE OF PLEA

A change in the defendant's plea from not guilty to guilty.

CONTINUANCES

Postponements or scheduling of further dates.

DEFAULT

Failure by a defendant to appear in court when scheduled.

DEFENSE COUNSEL

The attorney representing the defendant.

FELONY

A crime punishable by incarceration in state prison.

INDICTMENT

A formal written accusation of a crime made by the Grand Jury and returned in Superior Court.

INDIGENT

Having insufficient income or assets to be able to pay for a defense attorney.

JURISDICTION

The extent of authority of a particular court.

MISDEMEANOR

A crime punishable by incarceration in the House of Correction.

MOTION

A formal request by the defense attorney or Assistant District Attorney that the judge rule on a particular question or issue.

OBJECTION

A claim by a defense attorney or Assistant District Attorney that a question posed to the witness is legally improper. Objections are ruled on by the judge.

PERSONAL RECOGNIZANCE

Release upon a personal promise to return to court as required; no money or bail bond is required.

RESTITUTION

Money paid by the defendant to compensate the victim for actual out-of-pocket losses.

SEQUESTER

To set witnesses apart so one does not hear another testify or discuss testimony with other witnesses.

SUBPOENA (summons)

A court order to appear in court.

TESTIMONY

Statements made in court under oath.

VERDICT

The decision of the judge or jury at the end of a trial.

WARRANT

A court order to arrest a person or seize an object.