Judicial Branch Vocabulary

Front

A court decision that stands as an example to be followed in future, similar cases.

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Precedent

Front

Detailed written statements filed with the Court before oral arguments are presented.

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Briefs

Front

Written explanation of the views of one or more judges who disagree with a decision reached by a majority of the court.

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Dissenting Opinion

Front

The government must act fairly and in accord with established rules on all that it does.

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Due Process

Front

A court order authorizing a search.

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Search Warrant

Front

Reasonable grounds; reasonable suspicion of crime.

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Probable Cause

Front

In civil law, the party who brings a suit or some other legal action against another in court.

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Plaintiff

Front

In a civil suit, the person against whom a court action is brought by a plaintiff; in a criminal case, the person charged with a crime.

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Defendant

Front

The category of law that deals with crimes and their punishments.

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Criminal Law

Front

Category of law relating to human conduct, disputes between private parties, and disputes between private parties and government not covered by criminal law.

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Civil Law