Glossary of Criminal Defense Terms

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

- A -

Acquittal: Judgement that a criminal defendant has not been proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Affidavit: A written statement of facts confirmed by the oath of the party making it, before a notary or officer having authority to administer oaths.

Affirmative action: Programs often required by state or federal law that attempt to compensate for discriminatory practices that have in the past denied fair consideration to members of minority groups. Affirmative defense - A statement by a defendant that provides justification for an action or an explanation for behavior or that provides the basis for denial of liability.

Affirmed: In the practice of appellate courts, the word means that the decision of the trial court is correct.

Aggravated assault: an unlawful attack by one person upon another for the person of inflicting harm. This type of assault usually involves a weapon.

Arson: a willful or malicious burning, or attempt to burn, a home, public place, vehicle or any personal property of another.

Appeal: A request made after a trial, asking another court to decide whether the trial was conducted properly.

Arraignment: A proceeding in which an individual who is accused of committing a crime is brought into court, told of the charges, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty.