Common Acronyms in Criminal Cases

A defendant charged with a crime is likely nervous, anxious, confused, and stressed. When lawyers speak in acronyms, it can be challenging for a person to understand their charges or potential penalties.

A Defense Lawyer Must Help Their Client Understand the Process

The law is complicated and designed so that knowledgeable and experienced people have the upper hand. Experienced criminal defense lawyers are the best hope for a person accused of a felony or misdemeanor offense. Every case is defensible, and with proper representation, you may be able to avoid a conviction and jail time. A defendant who does not understand the terminology and common acronyms used by lawyers and judges in criminal cases is in jeopardy of making detrimental decisions regarding their defense. The defense lawyer must patiently explain the nature of the charges, the potential defenses, and the penalties available to the judge at sentencing.

Why should a defendant understand the court process?

It is essential for a criminal defendant to understand the court process, including the common acronyms in criminal cases, and the options available in their case, because it empowers them to navigate the complex and often intimidating criminal justice system effectively. This understanding enables defendants to make informed decisions, such as whether to accept a plea deal or proceed to trial, based on a clear comprehension of potential consequences and their legal rights. Moreover, being informed about the process can help alleviate anxiety and uncertainty, as the defendant can anticipate what to expect at each stage of the proceedings. Additionally, when a defendant is knowledgeable about their case, they can more effectively communicate and collaborate with their criminal defense attorney, ensuring that their defense strategy aligns with their personal circumstances and legal objectives. This knowledge helps those facing felony and misdemeanor charges in Michigan make better, strategic decisions. Also, a solid understanding of the process and options plays a vital role in safeguarding the defendant’s legal rights throughout the criminal justice process.

Here are some common acronyms in criminal cases that you may find confusing:

Assault GBH – Assault with Intent to Great Bodily Harm Less than Murder
CSC – Criminal Sexual Conduct
FA – Felonious Assault
OWI – Operating While Intoxicated
OWVI – Operating While Visibly Impaired
DUI – Driving Under the Influence
OWID – Operating Under the Influence of Drugs
OWPD – Operating with the Presence of Drugs
A&B – Assault and Battery
R&O – Resisting and Obstructing the Police
OCCC – Oakland County Circuit Court
MCCC – Macomb County Circuit Court
WCCC – Wayne County Circuit Court
WCCCJ – Wayne County Criminal Justice Center
LCCC – Livingston County Circuit Court

OCJ – Oakland County Jail
OCPO – Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office
MCPO – Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office
LIB – Larceny in a Building
MDOC – Michigan Department of Corrections
VOP – Violation of Probation
PSR – Pre-Sentence Report
PSIR – Pre-Sentence Investigation Report
ARR – Arraignment
LIEN – Law Enforcement Information Network
AUSA – Assistant United States Attorney
CAA – Court Appointed Attorney
APA – Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
CJS – Criminal Justice System
A&D – Alcohol and Drugs

DA – District Attorney
PO – Parole Officer
PO – Probation Officer
OIC – Officer in Charge
PV – Probation Violation Hearing
SORA – Sex Offender Registration Act
FTA – Failure to Appear
BW – Bench Warrant
ROR – Release on Own Recognizance
AOI – Arraignment on Information
DIP – Drunk in Public
FCJ – Failure to Comply with Judgment
CSI – Crime Scene Investigator
SVU – Special Victim’s Unit

Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Know the Law and Know How to Win

If you or a loved one is charged with a crime or accused of a criminal offense, please call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. for a free consultation. One of our expert criminal defense attorneys will gladly take the time to listen to your story patiently and develop a plan to help you. We have decades of experience and an unparalleled track record of success in defending clients with felony and misdemeanor charges in courts throughout Michigan. If you work with our criminal defense team, you can expect the following:

Expert knowledge of criminal law
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
High ethical standards and integrity
Persistence and resilience
Experience with trial advocacy
Ability to negotiate effectively
Compassion and respectful treatment
Strong research and writing abilities
A team of lawyers collaborating to achieve the best possible outcome

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.