Legal System | Attorneys.Media

Criminal Law vs Civil Law: What's the Real Difference?

Distinguishing Criminal Law from Civil Law: What You Need to Know

Civil Litigation, Criminal Defense, Criminal Law, Criminal Law Basics, Legal System / Guest Post

Criminal law vs civil law differs in 3 core ways: who brings the case (state vs private party), the burden of proof (beyond a reasonable doubt vs preponderance of evidence), and outcomes (jail/fines vs damages/injunctions). Criminal cases punish offenses against society, while civil cases resolve disputes and compensate harm. This article explains procedures, penalties, and […]

Distinguishing Criminal Law from Civil Law: What You Need to Know Read More »

Magnifying glass examining documents and evidence

What is evidence?

Evidence, Evidence Law, Legal Evidence / Jack Gilbert

Evidence is any information introduced in court to prove or disprove a fact, typically grouped into 4 main types: testimonial, documentary, physical, and demonstrative. Judges apply rules like relevance and reliability to decide what the jury can consider. This article explains what evidence is, how it’s used, and the common categories that affect case outcomes.

What is evidence? Read More »

Person taking an oath with raised right hand

What is an oath?

Affidavits, Legal Definitions, Sworn Statements / Jack Gilbert

An oath is a solemn, legally binding promise to tell the truth or faithfully perform a duty. It’s commonly required in court testimony, affidavits, and public office, sometimes invoking a higher power or sacred text as witness. This article explains the key elements of an oath, how it differs from an affirmation, and when it’s

What is an oath? Read More »

Gavel and legal scales representing juvenile justice

What is trying a juvenile as an adult?

Criminal Charges and Procedures, Criminal Law, Juvenile Justice / Jack Gilbert

Trying a juvenile as an adult means a person under 18 is transferred from juvenile court to adult criminal court for prosecution and sentencing. Transfers typically apply to serious violent felonies or repeat offenses, depending on state law and the youth’s age. This article explains transfer methods, key factors courts consider, and the consequences of

What is trying a juvenile as an adult? Read More »

Magnifying glass examining documents and data

What is discovery?

Civil Litigation, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury Litigation / Jack Gilbert

Discovery is the pretrial process where each side in a lawsuit must exchange relevant, nonprivileged information—often via interrogatories, document requests, and depositions. It’s designed to prevent surprise at trial and help both parties evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and potential settlement value of a case. This article explains what discovery includes, how it works, typical timelines

What is discovery? Read More »

Jury seated in courtroom during trial proceedings

What is a jury trial?

Civil Litigation, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury Litigation / Jack Gilbert

A jury trial is a court proceeding where a panel of typically 6–12 citizens decides the facts of a case and, in criminal cases, delivers a verdict of guilty or not guilty. The judge oversees the trial, rules on legal issues, and may determine sentencing or other remedies depending on the case. This article explains

What is a jury trial? Read More »

What is voir dire?

Appellate Law, Civil Litigation, Criminal Defense / Jack Gilbert

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

What is voir dire? Read More »

Judge's gavel and legal books in courtroom setting

Court Decisions Explained: Types, Process & Impact

Court Procedures, Judicial Process, Law and Government, Legal Education, Legal System / Jack Gilbert

Court decisions shape our legal system through various types including judgments, orders, and rulings. From trial courts to high court decisions, each level has distinct authority. Understanding court decision impacts helps citizens navigate legal matters, with implications extending from probate court decisions to constitutional precedents.

Court Decisions Explained: Types, Process & Impact Read More »

American flag with scales of justice overlay

Capital Punishment in America: Laws, Methods & Debate

Criminal Justice, Government and Politics, Law and Legal System, Social Issues and Ethics, United States Policy / Jack Gilbert

Capital punishment in the United States operates through a complex dual system of federal and state laws. Currently, 27 capital punishment states maintain death penalty statutes, while 23 states have abolished it. Capital punishment procedures vary significantly across jurisdictions, with each state determining its own eligible crimes and methods.

Capital Punishment in America: Laws, Methods & Debate Read More »

Judge's gavel with law books and scales of justice

Judicial Decisions: Types, Process, and Legal Impact

Civil Law and Litigation, Family Law and Child Welfare, Government and Administrative Law, Legal System and Courts, Property Law and Real Estate / Jack Gilbert

Judicial decisions are formal court rulings that resolve legal disputes and interpret laws. From judicial review agency decisions to judicial foreclosure process and child welfare decisions, these determinations shape our legal system, creating precedents that guide future cases and protect individual rights.

Judicial Decisions: Types, Process, and Legal Impact Read More »