Acquittal
ac·quit·tal
/əˈkwitl/
noun
When a defendant is found not guilty via jury verdict or the judge finds that there is not sufficient evidence to support a conviction.
The defendant’s case resulted in an acquittal.
Synonyms: clearing, exoneration, absolution, discharge, release, freeing, formal exculpation
Affidavit
af·fi·da·vit
/ˌafiˈdāvit/
noun
This refers to a printed or written statement one makes under oath.
She swore an affidavit in support setting out her case.
Synonyms: oath, testimony, affirmation, sworn statement
Alternate Juror
al·ter·nate jur·or
/ˈȯl-tər-nət/ ju̇r-ər/
noun
When another juror is selected in the same way as the regular jurors and hears all the evidence. However, the alternate juror does not participate in the case unless called upon in place of one of the regular jurors.
The alternate juror did not end up having to participate after all.
Synonyms: alternative juror, talesman
Appeal
ap·peal
/əˈpēl/
verb
If one party loses on one or more issues during a trial, it can launch an ‘appeal’ which is a request for a higher court to review the decision as a means of deciding whether or not the decision was correct. The party that appeals is the ‘appellant’ while the other party is known as the ‘appellee’.
After loosing the case, the defendant’s attorney began to file the paperwork to appeal the decision.
Synonyms: beseech, besiege, conjure, entreat, impetrate, implore, importune, petition
Arraignment
ar·raign·ment
/əˈrānmənt/
noun
This proceeding is when a defendant is taken to court, informed of the charges in the indictment and asked to make a plea. The defendant can plead ‘guilty’, ‘not guilty’ or ‘no contest’.
The attorney advised his client to plead “no contest” at the arraignment.
synonyms: accusation, charge, complaint, denunciation, impeachment, incrimination, indictment, prosecution
* These terms are general in nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Different states may define terms differently. These terms are not designed to be legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Always seek advice from an attorney licensed in your state who is familiar with how your jurisdiction defines key legal terms that are important in your particular matter.


Testimonials
I couldn't have made it through the most difficult time in my families' lives if it weren't for the support I received from Brian Petersen and Josh Edwards.
-Michelle (Former Client)

Above Your Expectations
What Makes Edwards & Petersen Your Best Choice-
Available 24/7
We know that when you need legal help it is a scary time in your life. That is why at Edwards & Petersen | PLC we'll be with you day and night to help you every step of the way.
-
A Team Effort
When you hire Edwards & Petersen | PLC, you're getting the whole team. Working as a team helps us to be able to come up with creative solutions to get our clients the best outcome.
-
Not A Case Number
You are not simply a file number to Edwards & Petersen | PLC. We treat and fight for our clients like they are family.