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Misdemeanor
A minor offense, lower than a felony, which is punishable by a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine, but not prison. Misdemeanors are classified into three categories: Class A, B, and C.
Subpoena
An official order to appear in court (or at a deposition) at a specific time. Failure to obey a subpoena to appear in court is punishable as a contempt of court.
Fourth Amendment
The 4th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects every person against unreasonable search and seizure by government officials.
Miranda rule
The rule, pronounced in Miranda v. Arizona, that confessions are inadmissible in a criminal prosecution if the police do not advise the suspect in custody of certain rights before questioning.
Tort
An injury or wrong committed, either with or without force, to the person or property of another, for which civil liability may be imposed.
Battery
Actual physical violence, whether serious or minor, inflicted on a person. (A mere threat is called assault, whereas the completed act is called battery)
Felony
A felony is a major crime for which the maximum imprisonment is more than one year in a state correctional institution. The court may also impose a fine. Felonies are classified into four categories: capital, 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree
Assault
A willful attempt to illegally inflict injury on or threaten a person.
Burglary
The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft.
Levy
A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property.
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