Demystifying Criminal Charge Terminology

May 20 2025 13:00

Legal jargon can be confusing and intimidating if you're unfamiliar with the criminal justice system. Understanding these key terms can help empower you to feel more confident and informed, especially if you’re involved in a criminal case.

Arraignment

An arraignment is your first appearance in court, where you officially hear the charges against you and enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This phase is crucial as it sets the stage for the proceedings that follow.

Perjury

Perjury involves lying under oath and is a grave offense, undermining the integrity of the court system. A famous case illustrating the consequences of perjury is the trial of Martha Stewart, convicted of lying to federal investigators.

Subpoena

A subpoena compels someone to testify in court or provide documents essential to the case. Ignoring a subpoena can lead to serious legal repercussions, such as fines or imprisonment.

Motion

A motion is a formal request made to the court, like a motion to dismiss charges or for the suppression of evidence that was gathered in violation of your Constitutional rights. These requests can significantly alter the course of a criminal case by introducing new evidence or raising legal defenses.

Discovery

The discovery process involves both sides exchanging evidence before a trial. This phase is key to ensuring a fair process, giving the defense an opportunity to review the prosecution's case.

Acquittal

An acquittal is the final judgment where a defendant is found NOT GUILTY. This effectively closes the case against the defendant.

Waiver Trial

A waiver or a bench trial is decided solely by a judge without a jury. Some defendants opt for this to have a quicker trial and to avoid the unpredictability of a jury's decision.

These terms form a small part of the intricate criminal justice system. By understanding them, you can navigate the complexities with less intimidation. If you need assistance with criminal charges, consider contacting me for a consultation.