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Subpoena
An agreement by attorneys on opposite sides of a case as to any matter pertaining to the proceedings or trial. It is not binding unless agreed to by the parties, and most stipulations must be in writing.
Judgment
The official decision of a court disposing of a case.
Plea-bargaining
A 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 multi-count information, or for dismissal of another case.
Impeachment of witness
An attack on the credibility of a witness.
Habeas corpus
Latin phrase meaning "you have the body"; a civil proceeding used to review the legality of a prisoner's confinement in criminal cases. Habeas corpus actions are commonly used as a means of reviewing state or federal criminal convictions. The petitioner alleges the convictions violated state or federal constitutional rights. State habeas proceedings start in state District Court; federal habeas proceedings start in federal District Court. Lower court decisions may be appealed to appellate courts.
Intervention
A proceeding in a civil suit by which a third person is permitted by the court to join as a party to the suit.
Search warrants
In general, an examination, without authority of law, of one's premises or person to find-stolen property or contraband.
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.
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