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Terms Used In Alabama Code 15-8-20

  • Common law: The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States. It is based on judicial decisions rather than legislative action.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Indictment: The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.
  • Statute: A law passed by a legislature.

In an indictment for an offense which was indictable at common law, the offense may be charged or described as at common law, and the defendant, if convicted, must receive the punishment prescribed by the statute.