Preliminary Hearing
Another term for arraignment.
Preliminary Injunction
A court order requiring action or forbidding action until a decision can be made whether to issue a permanent injunction. It differs from a temporary restraining order.
Preponderance of the Evidence
The greater weight of the evidence that is sufficient to convince a judge or jury that one side of an issue is stronger than another. It is the common standard of proof in civil cases.
Presentment
A charge issued by a grand jury of its own iniative.
Pretermitted Child
A child born after a will is executed, who is not provided for by the will. Most states have laws that provide for a share of estate property to go to such children.
Pretrial Services Agency (PSA)
The agency that does pretrial monitoring of all adults charged with a crime and awaiting trial. The agency does substance abuse testing for adults and juveniles charged with crimes in DC
Prima Facie Case
A case that is sufficient and has the minimum amount of evidence necessary to allow it to continue in the judicial process.
Pro Bono Publico
For the public good. Lawyers representing clients without a fee are said to be working pro bono publico.
Pro Se
A Latin term meaning "on one’s own behalf"; in courts, it refers to persons who present their own cases without lawyers.
Probable Cause
A reasonable belief that a crime has or is being committed; the basis for all lawful searches, seizures, and arrests.