Vocabulary and Spelling 1 Flashcards

Which of the following is the correct spelling of the legal term for a writ requiring a person to appear before a court?

Answer: subpoena

'Subpoena' is the correct spelling. It derives from Latin meaning 'under penalty' and refers to a court order compelling a person's attendance or production of documents. The silent 'b' and the 'oe' combination are common sources of error.

What does the term 'corroborate' mean in the context of a police investigation?

Answer: To confirm or support a statement with additional evidence

To corroborate means to strengthen or confirm a claim by providing additional evidence or testimony that supports it. Investigators corroborate witness accounts by seeking physical evidence or other witnesses that are consistent with the original statement.

Choose the correctly spelled word for covert observation of a person or location by police:

Answer: surveillance

'Surveillance' is the correct spelling, derived from the French word 'surveiller' meaning to watch over. Officers frequently encounter this term in warrants and operational reports; the double 'l' and the '-ance' ending are the most common mistakes.

In Canadian criminal law, what does the term 'mens rea' refer to?

Answer: The guilty mind or criminal intent required to establish an offence

'Mens rea' is Latin for 'guilty mind' and refers to the mental element of a crime — the intention, knowledge, or recklessness required alongside the physical act (actus reus) for a conviction. Police must gather evidence of both elements when building a case.

Which of the following is the correct spelling of the word meaning to formally question a suspect or witness in detail?

Answer: interrogate

'Interrogate' is the correct spelling. It comes from the Latin 'interrogare' and refers to systematic, formal questioning. Officers conducting interviews or interrogations will encounter this term in reports and procedures; the double 'r' is the most frequent spelling error.

What does the term 'jurisdiction' mean in a policing context?

Answer: The legal authority of a police service to enforce the law within a defined geographic area

Jurisdiction refers to the defined legal authority granted to a police service or court to act within a specific territory or over specific subject matter. Alberta RCMP detachments and municipal police services each have defined jurisdictions that determine where their powers apply.