Sentencing Guidelines

sent·enc·ing guide·lines

/ˈsentnsiNG/ˈgīdˌlīns/

noun

This is a set of rules established by the U.S. Sentencing Commission and is used by judges to determine the appropriate punishment.

The sentencing guidelines state that the minimum sentence for an Arizona extreme DUI requires one day in jail.

Statute of Limitations

stat·ute of lim·i·ta·tions

/ˈstaCHo͞ot/əv/ˌliməˈtāSHəns/

noun

In some cases, a lawsuit must be filed or a criminal prosecution needs to begin within a set period of time which varies depending on the type of crime/civil case.

Seven years had passed since the crime had been committed, so the statue of limitations prevented the prosecution with filing charges.

Subpoena

sub·poe·na

/səˈpēnə/

noun

This is a command issued under the authority of the court given to a witness; it tells that individual to appear and provide the court with testimony.

A subpoena may be issued to a witness to appear in court.

Synonyms: decree, mandate, summons, warrant, command

* 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.