Clerk of Courts | Common Terms

Grand Jury

A special jury charged with hearing evidence of felonies to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to return an indictment against the defendant and cause his or her to stand trial on the charges.

Indictment

A formal document issued by a grand jury accusing a defendant of a crime.

Nolo Contendre

A plea by the defendant in a criminal prosecution that, without admitting guilt, subjects him or her to conviction.

UIFSA (Uniform Interstate Family Support Act)

A federal act governing cases wherein one parent lives in one state (e.g., South Carolina) and the other does not.