11 Terms
Contributors in Courts
Courts
good time
Legal services; Courts
A reduction in sentenced time in prison as a reward for good behavior. It usually is one third to one half of the maximum sentence.
mitigation
Legal services; Courts
A reduction, abatement, or diminution of a penalty or punishment imposed by law.
acquittal
Legal services; Courts
A release, absolution, or discharge of an obligation or liability. In criminal law the finding of not guilty.
specific performance
Legal services; Courts
A remedy requiring a person who has breached a contract to perform specifically what he or she has agreed to do. Specific performance is ordered when damages would be inadequate compensation.
return
Legal services; Courts
A report to a judge by police on the implementation of an arrest or search warrant. Also, a report to a judge in reply to a subpoena, civil or criminal.
presentence report
Legal services; Courts
A report to the sentencing judge containing background information about the crime and the defendant to assist the judge in making his or her sentencing decision.
challenge for cause
Legal services; Courts
A request from a party to a judge that a certain prospective juror not be allowed to be a member of a jury because of specified causes or reasons. (Also, see peremptory challenge.)
