Lesson 3: Key Legal Terminologies in Criminal Procedure

Welcome to Lesson 3 on Key Legal Terminologies in Criminal Procedure. In this lesson, we're delving into the essential terms you'll bump into while studying criminal procedure law. Grasping these terms is key to maneuvering through the twists and turns of criminal proceedings.

Key Terminologies

  • Arraignment: The formal reading of a criminal charging document in the presence of the defendant, to inform them of the charges against them.
  • Indictment: A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
  • Probable Cause: The reasonable belief, based on facts, that a crime has been committed. Think of it as the law's way of saying, 'Yep, something's fishy here.'
  • Subpoena: A writ ordering a person to attend a court.
  • Plea Bargain: An agreement between the defendant and prosecutor where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for a lesser charge or sentence.

Arraignment Process

The following diagram illustrates the arraignment process:

Initial Arrest
Booking
Arraignment
Plea Entered

Understanding Probable Cause

Probable Cause is essential for the issuance of search and arrest warrants. This concept ensures that law enforcement officials have a reasonable basis for making an arrest, conducting a search, or pressing a charge.

Examples of Legal Documents

Here are a few examples of common legal documents:

Indictment
In the Court of Common Pleas
The People v. John Doe
John Doe is hereby indicted for the crime of burglary in the first degree.
Subpoena
To: Jane Smith
You are ordered to appear in court on the 10th day of June, 2023 at 9:00 AM.

Plea Bargaining Process

Plea bargaining is like the courtroom's version of 'Let's Make a Deal.' The following flowchart outlines the typical plea bargaining process:

Charges Filed
Plea Negotiations
Plea Agreement
Court Approval

Additional Resources

For further reading, you may find these resources useful:

Continue your learning journey with Lesson 4: Roles and Responsibilities of Law Enforcement.