Words related to COURT, ARRESTS, CRIME, JAIL

Words related to COURT, ARRESTS, CRIME, JAIL

1. suspect --He is suspected of a crime. He is a suspect.
2. arrest -- Based on suspicion, he might be arrested.
3. charge -- As he is arrested, he is charged. "You are under arrest for murder." Other words for "charge" are "claim" and "count". He was arrested on three different counts--murder, theft and fraud.
4. prosecute -- He goes to court and his case (charges) is argued or tried in front of a jury and judge (at a trial). The prosecutor prosecutes the defendant. The defense lawyer defends his client.
5. decision -- The jury/judge makes a decision--He is guilty. or He is innocent. We often say "He was convicted" or "He was found guilty." OR, "He was acquitted" or "He was found innocent."
6. sentence -- If he is guilty, he is sentenced to jail for a period of time. Of course, he could be sentenced to die--the death penalty. He could also get a "light sentence" of community service, house arrest, a fine, or a warning.
7. serve -- He serves his time in jail/pays his fine/performs his community service.


Many ESL students have a hard time with LEGAL words and news stories. If you study the terms and process above--you should have an easier time understanding stories you read in the news^^ I am NOT a lawyer, so if there is someone with advice on how to make this easier or more clear, please let me know^^

Have a great day and I hope you keep enjoying English as your new language!

Coach Shane