glossary

Voir dire

The process by which judges and lawyers select a petit jury from among those eligible to serve by questioning them to determine knowledge of the facts of the case and a willingness to decide the case only on the evidence presented in court. “Voir dire” is a phrase meaning “to speak the truth.”

glossary

Violation

An offense for which the only sentence authorized is a fine.

glossary

Verdict

The decision of a petit jury or a judge.

glossary

Venue

The geographic area in which a court has jurisdiction. A change of venue is a change or transfer of a case from one judicial district to another.

glossary

Vacate

To cancel or rescind a court order.