Criminal Case Terms

Front

Prosecution

Back

The side bringing criminal charges against the defendant (represents the State of Georgia).

Front

Defendant

Back

The person accused of committing a crime.

Front

Crime

Back

An act or omission that violates a law and is punishable by the government.

Front

Felony

Back

A serious crime (e.g., murder, armed robbery) punishable by more than one year in prison.

Front

Misdemeanor

Back

A less serious crime, punishable by up to one year in jail.

Front

Prosecutor

Back

The lawyer representing the state or government.

Front

Defense Attorney

Back

The lawyer representing the defendant.

Front

Witness

Back

A person who gives testimony under oath.

Front

Jury

Back

A group of citizens who determine the verdict (not always present in mock trials).

Front

Presumption of Innocence

Back

The principle that the defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty.