Criminal Defense Terms and Definitions

Fourteenth Amendment Among other matters, the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property without adequate due process. Allegation The assertion, declaration, or statement of a party to an action, made in a pleading, establishing what the party expects to prove. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Methods of resolving disputes outside of official court proceedings. These methods include mediation arbitration, and conciliation. Abstract of record A short, abbreviated form of the case as found in the record. Dismissal without prejudice A dismissal which permits the plaintiff to sue again on the same cause of action or the state to proceed again. Dismissal with prejudice bars the right to subsequently bring an action on the same cause. Fraud An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right. Levy A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property. Search warrant An order issued by a judge or magistrate commanding a sheriff, constable, or other officer to search a specified location. Manslaughter A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter. Assault A willful attempt to illegally inflict injury on or threaten a person.

Contact us now to obtain a free case review or more information on our San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyers.

	Did You Know?
	Miranda rule and Miranda rights are important 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. The rights include: a. The right to remain silent and to refuse to answer any questions; b. The right to know that anything the suspect says can and will be used against the suspect in a court of law; c. The right to consult with an attorney and to have an attorney present during questioning; d. The right to have counsel appointed at public expense, prior to any questioning if the suspect cannot afford counsel.