Terms You Should Know

Justice Matters. It's Your Right.

Knowledge of legal terms is key to understanding what's happening in your case.

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Here are some common terms that you should make sure you know if you come into contact with the criminal justice system. Knowing these basics will help you understand what is happening to you or a loved one who gets arrested.

LegalTerms

Felony

A serious crime, including arson, rape, perjury and homicide, punishable by more than one year in prison

Due Diligence

The action a responsible person would take; such as stopping your car at a red traffic light or washing your hands before cooking in a restaurant

Prosecutor

This lawyer is employed by the District Attorney and represents the victim

Defendant

The person charged with a crime

Misdemeanor

A crime punishable by a year in prison or less

Deposition

A statement given under oath

JuvenileJustice

Queens Defenders represents youth, age 18 and younger, who have been charged with crimes. There are three types of cases:

Juvenile Offender

13-15 years-old at the time of the crimes: murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery in the first degree

Youthful Offender

Any youth arrested for a felony or misdemeanor prior to 19th birthday
After indictment, case is heard in the youth part of Supreme Court

Adolescent Offender

16 or 17 years old at the time of the crime
Crime is a felony
Case can be removed to family court if the judge determines that it does not meet the criteria for supreme court

Click here for more information on all Queens courts.

Justice Matters. It's Your Right.