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Jury Deliberation Room with Diverse Jurors Discussing

What is a hung jury?

A hung jury occurs when jurors can’t reach the required unanimous verdict in a criminal case, resulting in a mistrial. It typically happens after extended deliberations when the judge concludes further discussion won’t break the deadlock, allowing prosecutors to retry the case or dismiss it. This article explains how a hung jury is determined, what […]
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Subpoena Document with Gavel on Wooden Desk

What is a subpoena?

A subpoena is a legally binding court order requiring you to testify, provide documents, or both—ignoring it can lead to penalties such as contempt of court. Subpoenas are commonly issued in criminal and civil cases and may come from a court, attorney, or government agency depending on the jurisdiction. This article explains what a subpoena […]
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Judge's Gavel with Law Books and Scales of Justice

What is the exclusionary rule?

The exclusionary rule generally bars evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment from being used in a criminal prosecution. It’s designed to deter unlawful searches and seizures by law enforcement, though several exceptions can still allow the evidence in. This article explains what the exclusionary rule is, when it applies, key exceptions, and how […]
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Judge Signing an Arrest Warrant Document

What is an arrest warrant?

An arrest warrant is a court order—typically signed by a judge or magistrate—authorizing law enforcement to arrest a specific person based on probable cause. It’s issued after police or prosecutors submit sworn information linking the person to an alleged crime, and it can affect when and where an arrest may occur. This article explains how […]
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Judge Signing a Search Warrant Document

What is a search warrant?

A search warrant is a court order signed by a judge or magistrate authorizing police to search a specific place for specific evidence. It must be supported by probable cause and typically describes the location and items to be seized. This article explains what makes a warrant valid, how it’s executed, key exceptions, and your […]
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Judge's Gavel and Scales of Justice in Courtroom

What is contempt of court?

Contempt of court is conduct that disobeys a court order or disrupts court proceedings and can be punished by fines, attorney’s fees, or jail time. Courts use contempt powers to enforce compliance and protect the integrity of the judicial process, often distinguishing between civil (to compel) and criminal (to punish) contempt. This article explains what […]
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Judge's Gavel on Desk with Law Books

What is obstruction of justice?

Obstruction of justice is a crime that involves intentionally interfering with a legal investigation, court proceeding, or law enforcement process. It can include actions like destroying evidence, lying to investigators, threatening witnesses, or tampering with jurors, and penalties vary by jurisdiction and severity. This article explains what counts as obstruction, common examples, required intent, possible […]
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Judge's Gavel and Law Books Representing Perjury

What is perjury?

Perjury is the crime of knowingly making a false statement under oath in an official legal proceeding. It typically applies to testimony, sworn affidavits, or declarations, and penalties can include fines and jail time depending on the jurisdiction and severity. This article explains the legal definition of perjury, the elements prosecutors must prove, common examples […]
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Person in Suit Demanding Money from Worried Man

What is extortion?

Extortion is a crime where someone obtains or tries to obtain money, property, or services by using threats, force, or intimidation. Depending on the state and the type of threat—such as violence, exposing private information, or harming a business—charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies with substantial prison time and fines. This article explains […]
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Masked Thief Stealing from Person at Atm

What is robbery?

Robbery is a theft crime that involves taking property directly from a person by using force, violence, or intimidation. Unlike other theft offenses, robbery centers on the threat or use of force against the victim during the taking. This article explains the legal definition of robbery, common elements prosecutors must prove, potential penalties, and possible […]
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Burglar Breaking into Home Through Window at Night

What is burglary?

Burglary is typically defined as unlawfully entering a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a crime inside—often theft, but not always. Many states treat it as burglary even if nothing is stolen, and penalties can increase if the location is a home, the entry is at night, or a weapon is involved. This […]
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