§ 503A.001 Definitions
§ 503A.002 Applicability
§ 503A.003 Exclusive Property Right in Dna; Confidentiality
§ 503A.004 Requirements for Certain Uses of Deidentified Data
§ 503A.005 Requirements for Certain Uses or Disclosure of Genetic Data and Biological Sample
§ 503A.006 Required Consent
§ 503A.007 Prohibited Disclosures
§ 503A.008 Civil Penalty

Terms Used In Texas Business and Commerce Code Chapter 503A - Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing Companies; Rights Regarding DNA

  • Asset forfeiture: A procedure by which a person's property is seized to pay judgments levied by the court.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Dismissal: The dropping of a case by the judge without further consideration or hearing. Source:
  • Docket: A log containing brief entries of court proceedings.
  • Extradition: The formal process of delivering an accused or convicted person from authorities in one state to authorities in another state.
  • Habeas corpus: A writ that is usually used to bring a prisoner before the court to determine the legality of his imprisonment. It may also be used to bring a person in custody before the court to give testimony, or to be prosecuted.
  • Plea: In a criminal case, the defendant's statement pleading "guilty" or "not guilty" in answer to the charges, a declaration made in open court.
  • Probation: A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain conditions are observed.
  • Reporter: Makes a record of court proceedings and prepares a transcript, and also publishes the court's opinions or decisions (in the courts of appeals).
  • Summons: Another word for subpoena used by the criminal justice system.
  • Swear: includes affirm. See Texas Government Code 311.005
  • Writ: A formal written command, issued from the court, requiring the performance of a specific act.