| A | B |
|---|
| due process | the idea stated in the 5th and 4th Amendments that every person involved in a legal dispute is entitled to a fair hearing or trial. The requirements of due process vary with the situation, but they basically require notice and an opportunity to be heard |
| waive | to give up some right, privilege, or benefit voluntarily |
| voir dire | from the French phrase meaning "to speak the truth". It is the screening process in which opposing lawyers question prospective jurors to ensure as favorable or as fair a jury as possible |
| for-cause challenge | a lawyer's request that a potential juror be eliminated for some specific reason |
| peremptory challenge | part of the pretrial jury selection. Attorneys on opposing sides may dismiss a certain number of possible jurors without giving any reason. |
| subpoena | a court order to appear in ourt or turn over documents on a specified date and time |
| contempt of court | any act to embarass, hinder or obstruct the court in the administration of justice |
| immunity | freedom from; protection from some action, such as being sued or prosecuted |
| indigent | term used to describe a defendant who does not have the financial means to hire an attorney |
| petitioner | one who signs and/or files a petition. The party initiating or appealing a case to the Supreme Court is referred to as the petitioner |
| writ | a judge's order, or authorization, for something to be done |
| habeas corpus | Latin for "you have the body"; a writ which directs the law enforcement officials who have custody of a prisoner to appear in court with the prisoner to help the judge determine whether the prisoner is being held lawfully |
| double jeopardy | a defendant cannot be prosecuted a second time for the same time |
