A Glossary Of Legal Terms

Every industry has its own language and terms for smooth and effective communication. Sadly, these words and phrases can be confusing to anyone who is not part of the daily operations of a specific industry, and the legal business is no exception.

To help you understand the terms, acronyms, and phrases regularly used when availing of legal services, Law Office of M. Byron Morgan has created this handy reference guide. Here you’ll find valuable information allowing you to comprehend and communicate your legal needs without much difficulty.

Probable cause
This refers to the amount of evidence needed to arrest someone. It can even be just a bare outline.

Bind over
This means to move up to the next court.

Indictment
This refers to a formal accusation.

Arraignment
This is the first formal opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty.

Plea
This refers to the formal process of answering to an accusation of a crime. The pleas in Georgia may be guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest).

Nolo contendere
This is a plea in which the accusation is neither admitted nor denied. But the judge may sentence the defendant as if he had been found guilty or has pleaded guilty.

Trial
This is the process whereby a criminal defendant is found either guilty or not guilty.

Verdict
This refers to the decision taken by a jury or judge that declares whether a defendant is guilty or not guilty.

Reasonable doubt
This means exactly what it sounds like, a doubt with a reason attached to it. That is the doubt of a fair-minded, reasonable juror honestly seeking the truth.

Not guilty verdict
This refers to the finding by a jury or judge that the State has failed to prove a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If you’re looking for more guidance to understand your legal requirements, reach out to Law Office of M. Byron Morgan. M. Byron Morgan, our criminal defense attorney in Jonesboro, Georgia, works closely with you to represent your best interests and is available to you as and when you need guidance. But, what sets us apart from the rest of our competitors is our desire to listen, communicate, and to advocate zealously for you. Regardless of whether you are formally accused of a crime or merely being investigated, we will readily help you with your requirements.

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