Criminal Defense Terms and Definitions

Embezzlement The fraudulent appropriation by a person to his own use or benefit of property or money entrusted to him by another. Admissible evidence Evidence which can legally and properly be used in court. Battery Actual physical violence, whether serious or minor, inflicted on a person. (A mere threat is called assault, whereas the completed act is called battery) Levy A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property. Fourth Amendment The 4th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects every person against unreasonable search and seizure by government officials. Burglary The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft. Restitution Court-ordered payment to restore goods or money to the victim of a crime by the offender. Accessory A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact. Bench warrant An order issued by the court for the arrest of a person Manslaughter A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter.

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	Did You Know?
	Plea Bargaining - a process whereby the prosecutor and defense attorney negotiate Process whereby the prosecutor and defense attorney negotiate a mutually satisfactory disposition of the case. The court and the defendant must approve of any settlements. For example, a guilty plea may be exchanged for a lesser charge or a sentencing recommendation, or for dismissal of one or more of the charges in a multi-count information, or for dismissal of another case.