11 - 16s glossary

Bail
When with the accused is not kept in custody before trial but must report to the police or the court when asked to do so. Bail is not granted if it is thought the person would not turn up in court, may commit another offence or might interfere with witnesses or the justice process.

Bankruptcy
When someone is declared in law to be unable to pay what they owe.

Barrister
A qualified lawyer who has special training on presenting cases in court. They explain the case and question the witnesses. Sometimes solicitors take this role and are called solicitor advocates.

Beyond reasonable doubt
In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove their case 'beyond reasonable doubt' against the accused person. In practice this means that members of the jury must be convinced (or sure) that the accused person is guilty of the crime committed.

Breach of bail
When someone breaks their conditions of bail or fails to turn up in court. They can be arrested for this.

Breach of human rights
When a person’s human rights are ignored, refused or not taken into account.