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Premeditation
The planning of a crime preceding the commission of the act, rather than committing the crime on the spur of the moment.
Power of attorney
A written instrument authorizing another (not necessarily a lawyer) to act as one's agent or attorney.
Fifth Amendment
Among other rights, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a person cannot be compelled to present self-incriminating testimony in a criminal (or juvenile) proceeding.
Statute of limitations
The judgment formally pronounced by the court upon the defendant after conviction in a criminal prosecution, imposing the punishment to be inflicted.
Corpus delicti
- The substance or foundation of a crime; the substantial fact that a crime has been committed, e g., the corpse of a homicide victim, the charred remains of a burned house.
Expert testimony
Testimony given in relation to some scientific, technical or professional matter by experts, i.e., persons qualified to speak authoritatively by reason of their special training, skill or familiarity with the subject.
Interrogatories
In the discovery phase of civil litigation, these written questions are submitted by one party to another party and must be answered in writing under oath.
Burglary
The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft.
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