Criminal record sealing is a court process that restricts public access to certain arrests or convictions, with eligibility and timelines varying by state. Sealed records may still be visible to law enforcement, some courts, and select employers, but are generally hidden from most background checks. This article explains how sealing works, who may qualify, how […]
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What is a preliminary hearing?
A preliminary hearing is a court proceeding where a judge decides whether prosecutors have enough probable cause to keep a felony case moving forward. It typically occurs early after arrest or charging and may include witness testimony and limited cross-examination. This article explains how preliminary hearings work, what evidence is presented, possible outcomes, and how […]
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What is voir dire?
Voir dire is the jury-selection process where judges and attorneys question potential jurors to identify bias and ensure an impartial jury. It occurs before trial in both criminal and civil cases and can lead to jurors being removed for cause or through limited peremptory challenges. This article explains what voir dire means, how it works […]
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What is criminal restitution?
Criminal restitution is court-ordered payment a defendant must make to a victim to cover specific, provable losses caused by the crime. It’s part of a criminal sentence in many cases and is separate from fines or civil damages. This article explains how restitution is calculated, what losses qualify, how payment is enforced, and what options […]
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What is parole?
Parole is the supervised early release of a person from prison before they complete their full sentence, contingent on compliance with specific conditions. It’s granted by a parole board or similar authority and can be revoked if the person violates rules like reporting requirements, curfews, or new criminal conduct. This article explains how parole works, […]
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What is a suspended sentence?
A suspended sentence is a court-imposed sentence that doesn’t take effect unless you violate specified conditions, typically during a set probation period. Instead of serving time immediately, you remain in the community under court-ordered rules, and a breach can trigger the original jail or prison term. This article explains how suspended sentences work, common conditions, […]
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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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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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What is a mistrial?
A mistrial is when a judge ends a trial early without a verdict, usually because a serious legal error, juror problem, or prejudicial event makes a fair decision impossible. It can be declared on a party’s motion or by the court, often meaning the case may be retried. This article explains what triggers a mistrial, […]
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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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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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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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