Judicial Branch Words

2. The right of a convicted person to ask a higher court to review his/her case.
4. A group that hears the evidence in a criminal case and decides if there is enough evidence to bring the accused person to trial. If so, they issue an indictment.
5. A less serious crime. In Virginia, the most severe class of misdemeanor can result in 1 year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
8. A court case involving disputes between two parties (individuals, businesses) related to money or property.
10. A formal charging of someone with a crime, or being brought before the court to answer questions about a crime.
13. A person accused of a crime in a criminal court case or the person being served in a civil suit.
14. The authority to interpret and administer the law. Jurisdiction determines which type of court you attend and where it is located.

1. The basis that police must have in order to make an arrest, perform a search of a person or property, or obtain a warrant.
3. The government’s side in a criminal case.
4. Jury, A group that hears the evidence in a criminal case and decides if there is enough evidence to bring the accused person to trial. If so, they issue an indictment.
6. The person or company filing the complaint in a civil lawsuit.
7. An authorization by a court for police to make an arrest.
9. The power of the U.S. Supreme Court to determine if law or presidential action follows the Constitution. This is when the judicial branch interprets the laws.
11. A serious crime, such as kidnapping or murder. In Virginia, the most severe class of felony can result in life in prison or a death sentence.
12. The decision of a judge or jury.