Forensic Science General Vocabulary

Front

What is evidence in court where a person tells everything they saw or know?

Back

Testimony: A formal statement made by a witness in court.

Front

This person is an individual who is accused of something in the court of law.

Back

Defendant: The person in a court case who is accused of a crime.

Front

This person is allowed to testify at a criminal trial because they have special knowledge about that topic.

Back

Expert Witness: A person with specialized knowledge who can provide testimony in court.

Front

Who are the group of people sworn to make a decision/deliver a verdict in court?

Back

Jury: A group of individuals selected to hear evidence and make a decision in a legal case.

Front

This is a police procedure following an arrest that records information about the suspect like: a mug shot, fingerprints, etc.

Back

Booking: The process of recording an arrested person's information.

Front

What is the legal term for a formal charge or accusation of a serious crime?

Back

Indictment: A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.

Front

What is the term for a plea in which the defendant does not admit guilt but accepts punishment?

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No Contest: A plea where the defendant does not contest the charges.

Front

What is the term for the process of questioning a witness under oath?

Back

Examination: The process of questioning a witness in court.

Front

What is the term for the legal process of resolving a dispute between parties?

Back

Litigation: The process of taking legal action.

Front

What is the term for a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation for use as evidence in court?

Back

Affidavit: A written statement made under oath.