Criminal Defense Terms and Definitions

Bench warrant An order issued by the court for the arrest of a person Abstract of record A short, abbreviated form of the case as found in the record. Burglary The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft. Fifth Amendment Among other rights, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a person cannot be compelled to present self-incriminating testimony in a criminal (or juvenile) proceeding. Misdemeanor A minor offense, lower than a felony, which is punishable by a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine, but not prison. Misdemeanors are classified into three categories: Class A, B, and C. Levy A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property. Fraud An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right. Restitution Court-ordered payment to restore goods or money to the victim of a crime by the offender. Accessory A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact. 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.

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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.