Forensic Science & the Law Vocabulary

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Statutory Law

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Consists of the laws passed by the legislature, including acts passed by the United States Congress, designated as Public Laws or Private Laws.

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Miranda Rights

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The legal rights of an arrested person to have an attorney and to refuse to answer questions.

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Edmond Locard

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A French criminologist known as the 'Sherlock Holmes of France', who formulated the principle: 'Every contact leaves a trace'.

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Indict (Indictment)

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A formal accusation against someone suspected of committing a serious crime, filed after a grand jury investigation.

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Expert Witness

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A person permitted to testify at a trial due to special knowledge or proficiency in a relevant field.

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Civil Law

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A body of laws that govern private rights and disputes between individuals.

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Criminal Law

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A system of law concerned with the punishment of those who commit crimes.

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Administrative Law

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The body of law that regulates the operation and procedures of government agencies.

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Probable Cause

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A reasonable basis for believing that a crime may have been committed, necessary for obtaining a warrant.

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True Bill

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A formal statement by a grand jury that there is enough evidence to charge someone with a crime.