Panel attorneyAn attorney in private practice who has been found qualified and eligible to represent indigent defendants under the Criminal Justice Act (CJA).
ParoleSupervised release of a prisoner from imprisonment on certain prescribed conditions which entitle him to relief from a prison sentence.
Peremptory challengeRequest by a party that a judge not allow a certain prospective juror as a member of the jury. No reason or cause need be stated. See challenge for cause.
Physical evidenceDuring discovery, the defendant is entitled to inspect and copy certain physical evidence in the possession of the government.
Plea agreementAn agreement between the government and the defendant to resolve a pending criminal case by the defendant's entry of a guilty plea rather than going to…
Preliminary ExaminationA preindictment hearing at which the prosecutor must present evidence sufficient to establish probable cause that a federal offense was committed and that…
Presentence investigation and reportBefore sentencing, a probation officer investigates the defendant's background, financial condition, criminal offense(s), and criminal history.
Presumption of innocenceBefore the trial begins, the court instructs the jury to presume the defendant is innocent of all charges.
Pretrial conference/status hearingA conference held prior to trial to consider and resolve important issues in a given case and promote the fair and speedy trial of the case.
Pretrial proceedingsGenerally refers to the events that occur between the time the defendant first appears in court and the time of trial.
Pretrial Services OfficerAn officer of the court who collects and verifies the information used by judges in deciding issues related to pretrial release and detention.
Pretrial Services ReportA report prepared by a pretrial services officer containing information about a defendant's personal history, criminal record, and financial status.
Privilege against self-incriminationAlso know as the right to remain silent, the privilege against self-incrimination is contained in the Fifth Amendment.
pro seA nonlawyer who represents himself or herself in a court proceeding.
Probable cause1. The basis for all lawful searches, seizures and arrests. 2. A reasonable belief that a crime has or is being committed.
ProbationAn alternative to imprisonment allowing a person found guilty of an offense to stay in the community, usually under conditions and under the supervision…
Probation officerOfficers of the probation office of a court. Probation officer duties include conducting presentence investigations, preparing presentence reports on…
Proof beyond a reasonable doubtThe level or quality of proof needed to convict a criminal defendant at trial. The government has the burden of proof in a criminal case and, in order to…