The Judicial Branch

4. The right of a convicted person to ask a higher court to review his/her case.
8. A group that hears the evidence in a criminal case and decides if there is enough evidence to bring the accused person to trial.
9. A less serious crime.
14. A formal charging of someone with a crime, or being brought before the court to answer questions about a crime.
17. The branch of government that interprets laws.
18. The power of the U.S. Supreme Court to determine if law or presidential action follows the Constitution.
19. The decision of a judge or jury.
20. The government’s side in a criminal case.

1. An authorization by a court for police to make an arrest.
2. A court case involving disputes between two parties (individuals, businesses) related to money or property.
3. A serious crime, such as kidnapping or murder.
5. The person or company filing the complaint in a civil lawsuit.
6. A claim filed by the defendant against the claimant.
7. The basis that police have to make an arrest or action.
10. The authority of some courts to review decisions made by lower courts.
11. A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
12. A person accused of a crime in a criminal court case or the person being served in a civil suit.
13. The authority of a court to be the first court to hear a case. Courts with original jurisdiction are also known as trial courts.
15. The authority to interpret and administer the law. Jurisdiction determines which type of court you attend and where it is located.
16. A court case in which a person is accused of breaking a criminal law.