Consecutive sentence - Prison terms for two or more offenses to be served one after the other. Example: Two five-year sentences and one three-year sentence, if served consecutively, result in a maximum of 13 years behind bars.⏎
Ex parte - A proceeding brought before a court by one party only, without notice to or challenge by the other side.⏎
Community service - A special condition the court imposes that requires an individual to work – without pay – for a civic or nonprofit organization.⏎
Dismissal without prejudice - Court action that allows the later filing.⏎
Counsel - Legal advice; a term also used to refer to the lawyers in a case.⏎