Reference Guide

Glossary of Terms

Understanding the legal system and victim services can be overwhelming. This glossary explains key terms you may encounter on your journey — so you can navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

AFFIDAVIT: A written statement of facts that someone swears (under oath) is true. Affidavits are often used to describe what happened in your own words for the court or police. They can support requests like protective orders.

APPEAL: A request for a higher court to review a decision because you believe a legal mistake was made. It doesn't redo the whole case, but it checks whether the law was applied correctly. Appeals can change the outcome or lead to a new hearing.

ARRAIGNMENT: Your first court hearing in a criminal case where the charges are read out loud. The accused person is asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). The judge may also address bond and future court dates.

ACQUITTAL: When someone is found not guilty and cleared of criminal charges.

ARRESTED: Being taken into custody by law enforcement after a person is suspected of committing a crime. During an arrest, individuals are usually informed of their rights and may be booked, which involves recording their personal information and the details of the alleged offense.

BAIL / BOND: Money or a promise paid by a judge to make sure the accused returns to court. If released on bond, the person must follow certain rules. If they don't show up for court, the money is forfeited and a warrant may be issued for their arrest. A bond is specific to what the accused must follow while released (for example, no contact with the victim, staying away from certain places, not leaving the state, or obeying all laws). The three main types of bonds are: 1) Personal bond: released on a promise to appear. 2) Cash bond: pay money up front that gets returned once all court obligations are fulfilled. 3) Surety bond: someone guarantees to pay if you don't appear.

COMMUNITY SUPERVISION INCENTIVES: Rewards given for following the rules of probation or court-ordered rules in the community. Rules may include classes, counseling, drug tests, or staying away from you. Violators can send the person back to court and possibly to jail.

CONFIDENTIALITY: Keeping information private, especially in situations like therapy, medical appointments, or legal conversations, unless disclosure is specifically allowed or required by law—for example, in cases of providing a your safety services.

COMPLIANCE: A follow up case built to a court hearing. Cases are often continued for scheduling, more investigation, or legal reasons. Your advocate can help you prepare.

CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION (CVS): A state program that may help pay costs like medical bills, counseling, lost wages, or funeral expenses. You typically need to report the crime to police quickly, cooperate with law enforcement, and apply within a certain time frame. Your advocate can help with the process.

CAPITAL MURDER: A type of murder that is punishable by death or life imprisonment without parole. It typically involves aggravating factors, such as the killing of a police officer, multiple victims, or the murder occurring during the commission of another serious crime, making it one of the most serious criminal offenses.

CASH BOND: A cash bond is when a defendant pays the full bail amount in cash to be released from jail while waiting for trial. The money acts as a guarantee that the defendant will return for court dates. If they show up and follow all conditions, they get the money back (minus any fees). If they miss court or break the rules, the money is forfeited, and they could be arrested again.

CONVICTION: When a person is found guilty of a crime by a judge or jury.

CRIMINALLY NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE: When someone causes the death of another person by acting carelessly or failing to act in a way that a reasonable person would. The person does not intend to kill, but their negligence leads to a fatal outcome. In this type of case, the person is held responsible for not recognizing the risks their actions posed to others.

DA / PROSECUTOR: The government's lawyer who is brings the case against the accused. They represent the state's interest in seeking justice, not any one person. The DA decides what charges will be filed, whether to offer a plea deal, and whether to take a case to trial.

DEFENDANT: The person accused of committing a crime in a criminal case. Sometimes referred to as 'respondent' in protective order cases. They may be the first survivor on that charge. If they did, the court can order a conviction and impose a sentence.

DEFERRED ADJUDICATION: When a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, the judge delays the final judgment. The defendant must complete certain conditions like probation, and if successful, the case is dismissed. If they fail, the judge can convict and impose the sentence.

DISCOVERY: The legal process where both sides share information between the prosecutor and defense before trial. This process helps both sides know what evidence exists. It doesn't mean your private records will be shared—there are protections in place for sensitive information.

DETAINED: The temporary confinement of an individual by law enforcement for questioning or investigation. This can occur without formal charges and typically happens when officers believe the person may be involved in a crime or poses a risk to public safety.

DISMISSAL: When a case is dropped by the court and doesn't go to trial.

DISMISSED: When a case is dropped, and the charges are no longer pursued. This can happen for several reasons, like lack of evidence or procedural issues. Once a case is dismissed, the defendant is free, and the legal process ends without a conviction.

DISPOSED: When a criminal case has been resolved and is officially closed. This can happen through various outcomes, like a conviction, acquittal, dismissal, or plea deal. Once a case is disposed of, no further legal action is taken on it.

EVIDENCE: Information used to prove what happened, such as photos, texts, videos, documents, or witness testimony. Good evidence is a powerful tool. This may include your testimony or other things you can provide. A lawyer can guide you on what evidence is helpful.

EXPUNGEMENT: A legal process that completely removes a criminal record. It's public access, like it different from a sealed record. Eligibility is limited and depends on case law.

FELONY: A more serious crime, usually carrying the possibility of a longer prison sentence. Examples may include aggravated assault, while sexual assault, or homicide. Charges go through more complex court procedures.

FOUND NOT GUILTY: After a trial, the jury or judge decides there is not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime. The defendant is cleared of the charges and is free from any legal punishment.

GRAND JURY: A group of citizens who confidentially review evidence to serious cases to decide if there's enough to formally charge someone with a felony. It's not like a regular trial. Their decision is called a 'true bill' (enough evidence) or a 'no bill' (not enough).

HEARING: A court session focused on one or more issues. For example, bond conditions, protective orders, or evidence arguments. There can be many hearings in one case before any trial or verdict. An your advocate can help prepare you.

INDICTMENT: A formal criminal charge issued by a grand jury for serious crimes (usually felonies). It means the case can proceed to a higher level of court proceedings.

INFORMATION (CHARGING): A written criminal charge filed by a prosecutor without using a grand jury (more common in misdemeanors). It formally starts the criminal case and begins the court process. It is not a conviction.

MANSLAUGHTER: A loss of life without premeditation.

MURDER: The intentional and unlawful killing of another person with premeditation or malice aforethought. It is classified into degrees, such as first-degree murder, which involves planning, and second-degree murder, which occurs without prior intent, and it carries severe penalties.

NO BILL / TRUE BILL: The grand jury's decision. True Bill means there's enough evidence to move forward with charges. No Bill means jury isn't enough evidence at the time to charge.

NO CONTACT ORDER: A legal order, often set as a bond condition, that bars someone from contacting you—by phone, text, email, or messages through others. Violations should be reported immediately. Note: records of any attempted contact.

NEGLIGENT MANSLAUGHTER: Causing someone's death through careless or reckless actions without intent to kill.

NO BILL: The grand jury did not find probable cause for the arrest. This means that the case will not proceed to trial unless another grand jury finds probable cause with additional evidence.

NULL: Legal action or decision has no legal effect or is invalid. It is treated as if it never happened and holds no power in court.

ORDER OF NONDISCLOSURE: A court order that seals certain records from public view, though some agencies can still see them. It's different from expungement, which completely erases records. Eligibility will vary by offense and jurisdiction.

PLEA: When a person is released from prison early under supervision and rules. If they break the rules, they can be returned to prison. Parole helps people transition to life outside prison under watch.

PLEA AGREEMENT: A deal between the accused and the prosecutor. The defendant usually pleads guilty to a lesser charge or to decide a proper, standard field negotiation to avoid a trial and possible harsher consequence. Victims may be able to share their views on it before it's finalized, and the court can reject or accept it.

PROBATION: A court-ordered period of supervision in the community instead of serving time in jail or prison. During probation, the individual must follow specific rules set by the court, such as meeting with a probation officer, attending counseling, or completing community service. Violating these conditions can result in additional penalties or jail time.

PROTECTIVE ORDER: A civil court order (not criminal) ordering someone to stop harmful behavior. This staying away from your home or workplace. If they ignore it, they can be arrested by police. Always carry your order and remember: Violations are serious and should be reported. There are different types and lengths, depending on your situation. Violators are serious and should be reported.

PAROLE: Conditional release of a prisoner before they complete their full sentence. While on parole, the individual must follow specific rules and check in with a parole officer. If they violate these conditions, they can be sent back to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence.

PLEA DEAL: An agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or other benefit.

POLICE OFFICER: A sworn law enforcement professional responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and preventing crime. Their duties include patrolling, responding to emergencies, conducting investigations, and engaging with the community.

PROSTITUTION: The act of exchanging sexual services for money or something of value.

RESTITUTION: Money the court can require a person to return to repair, without causing money up front. The person will fail to follow any bond or probation.

RECOGNIZANCE (RELEASE): Release from jail on a promise to return to court, without causing money up front. They can still be subject to rules or conditions, and if they fail to follow any bond conditions, and violation, may occur. They may be sent back to jail on either the offense or for a certain violation. Violations are serious and should be reported.

SAFE EXAM: A Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (also called a rape kit) is a special process. The exam focuses on your health and can collect evidence if you decide to report. You can request to do it even if you haven't decided whether to report to police yet.

SENTENCING: When the judge officially sets the punishment (e.g., jail, probation, fines, or classes). In some states, victims can give an impact statement. Sentences can range from community supervision to many years in prison, depending on the crime.

SUBPOENA: A court order telling a person to either appear in court (witness speaking a subpoena ad test or hand to sematitus, if you have safety or schedule concerns, let your advocate or the prosecutor know. You must show up unless the court says otherwise. In some cases, failing to do so can lead to a fine or arrest.

SUBPOENA DUCES TECUM: A court order requiring someone to bring documents or records to court. Only certain records are allowed, some are protected by law or need approval. If you receive one, an advocate or lawyer can explain how to respond. You'll likely need to produce what's requested or show legal reasons why you can't.

SOLICITATION OF A MINOR: Trying to get someone under 18 to engage in sexual activity, often through messages or offers.

TRIAL: A formal process where evidence is presented and a judge or jury decides guilt or innocence. You may be called as a witness. At a trial, your advocate can help prepare you for what to expect.

TRUE BILL / NO BILL: See: No Bill / True Bill. These are the grand jury's decisions on whether there's enough evidence to formally prosecute someone.

TRAFFICKING: The illegal trade or movement of people, drugs, or goods, often involving exploitation or force.

UNSATISFACTORY TERMINATION OF PROBATION: Happens when a person fails to meet the conditions of their probation, such as missing appointments or committing new offenses. This can lead to the court revoking probation and imposing a harsher sentence, like jail or prison time.

UNSECURED BOND: A type of bail that allows a defendant to be released from jail without paying money upfront. They agree to pay a specified amount if they fail to appear in court, holding them financially accountable while awaiting trial.

VOIR DIRE: Voir dire is a legal process used to determine the qualifications, fairness, and suitability of potential jurors (or, in some cases, witnesses or experts) before they are selected to participate in a trial. During voir dire, attorneys and the judge question potential jurors to uncover any biases, preconceived opinions, or personal connections that could affect their impartiality in deciding the case. Based on their responses, jurors may be accepted, challenged “for cause,” or dismissed through peremptory challenges (limited removals without needing to state a reason).

VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENT: Your chance to tell the judge (in writing or speaking) how the crime affected your life—physically, emotionally, financially, and financially. The judge can consider it in sentencing or parole hearings. You choose what to include or share.

WARRANT: A judge's written permission for arrest (arrest warrant) or search (search warrant). If issued based on probable cause that a person committed a crime or evidence will be found in a specific location, it must be based on probable cause. Ask your advocate what this means if you're uncertain.

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