15 essential words — with definitions, examples and pronunciation. Double-click any word to look it up instantly.
acquitverb
To officially declare someone not guilty.
“The jury acquitted him of all charges.”
allegationnoun
A claim that someone has done something wrong.
“He denied the allegations of fraud.”
convictverb
To officially declare someone guilty of a crime.
“She was convicted of theft and sentenced to prison.”
defendantnoun
A person accused of a crime in court.
“The defendant pleaded not guilty.”
evidencenoun
Facts or objects that help prove something.
“The police found key evidence at the crime scene.”
fraudnoun
Deliberate deception for financial gain.
“He was charged with credit card fraud.”
innocentadjective
Not guilty of a crime.
“She maintained she was innocent throughout the trial.”
jurynoun
A group of people who decide guilt in court.
“The jury reached a unanimous verdict of guilty.”
lawsuitnoun
A legal case brought to court.
“She filed a lawsuit against the company for unfair dismissal.”
parolenoun
Early release from prison with conditions.
“He was released on parole after serving half his sentence.”
penaltynoun
A punishment for breaking a rule or law.
“The penalty for speeding is a fine and points on your licence.”
prosecuteverb
To bring legal charges against someone.
“The company was prosecuted for health and safety violations.”
sentencenoun
A punishment given by a court.
“He received a five-year prison sentence.”
suspectnoun
A person believed to have committed a crime.
“Police have identified a suspect in the robbery.”
witnessnoun
A person who sees an event or gives evidence in court.
“Three witnesses saw the accident happen.”
Vocabulary Quiz
Test yourself — match the word to its definition.