Unit 9 Vocab

The court determines if an accused person is guilty or not guilty of breaking the law.

A serious crime that carries a heavy punishment.

A less serious crime that usually results in a fine or less than a year in jail.

A reason, based on facts or evidence, for police to believe a person committed a crime.

The first time a person goes to court to hear the official charges against them.

The defendant’s formal answer to the charges against them, usually "guilty" or "not guilty."

Money paid to the court as a promise that the person will show up for their trial; it allows them to stay out of jail until then.

A formal meeting in court where a judge or jury looks at evidence and listens to witnesses to decide if a person is guilty.

The final decision made by the jury or judge at the end of a trial (usually "guilty" or "not guilty").

A request to a higher court to review a case because someone believes a mistake was made during the trial.