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Public defender
In a civil tort action such as a medical malpractice suit, the plaintiff must show that an act or omission of the defendant was a proximate cause of the plaintiff's injury or loss. Similarly, in a criminal action, the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant's action was the direct cause of the crime
Recognizance
The continued, habitual or compulsive commission of law violations after first having been convicted of prior offenses.
Exclusionary rule
A rule by which evidence that was obtained illegally cannot be used in a criminal trial against a defendant. Also, in criminal cases, a rule which prevents witnesses from observing each other testify or from discussing testimony during the course of the proceedings.
Verdict
The formal and unanimous decision or finding made by a jury. .
Brief
A lawyer's written statement of a client's case filed in court. It usually contains a summary of the facts in the case, the pertinent laws, and an argument of how the law applies to the facts supporting the client's position.
Competency
A witness's ability to observe, recall and recount under oath what happened. Criminal defendants must also be competent to stand trial; they must understand the nature of the proceedings and have the ability to assist their lawyers.
Witness
One who testifies under oath to what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed.
Appearance
The formal proceeding by which defendant submits to the jurisdiction of the court.
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