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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 2305 taking the Fifth :: n. the refusal to testify on the ground that the t ... ifth." See also: self-incrimination constitutional rights :: n. rights given or reserved to the people by the U ... e also: Bill of Rights constitution equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law bill of attainder :: n. a legislative act which declares a named person ... e I, Section 9 of the Constitution. bill of exchange :: n. a writing by a party (maker or drawer) ordering ... awn on a bank account is a "check." bill of sale :: n. a written statement attesting to the transfer ( ... ther provisions. See also: contract justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. bill of lading :: n. a receipt obtained by the shipper of goods from ... ll of lading, there is no delivery. meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning party of the second part :: n. a reference to a party to a written contract, a ... " See also: party of the first part party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. heirs of the body :: n. descendants of one's bloodline, such as childre ... nal owner. See also: heir reversion officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge privilege against self incrimina-tion :: n. a right to refuse to testify against oneself in ... so: Bill of Rights taking the Fifth shifting the burden of proof :: n. the result of the plaintiff in a lawsuit meetin ... o: burden of proof prima facie case Restatement of the Law :: n. a series of detailed statements of the basic la ... tracts, property, torts and trusts. time is of the essence :: n. a phrase often used in contracts which in effec ... g the agreement. See also: contract bill of particulars :: n. a written itemization of claims which a defenda ... the factual bases for the charges. law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights. civil rights :: n. those rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, ... ill of Rights civil civil liberties preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence color of law :: n. the appearance of an act being performed based ... xtort payoffs to forget the ticket. self-incrimination :: n. making statements or producing evidence which t ... nda warning rights taking the Fifth color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title." admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights assumption of risk :: n. 1) taking a chance in a potentially dangerous s ... d be damaged or prove unprofitable. rights :: n. 1) plural of right, which is the collection of ... evidence. See also: Miranda warning right of way :: n. 1) a pathway or road with a specific descriptio ... s easement egress floating easement assignment for benefit of creditors :: n. a method used for a debtor to work out a paymen ... ar basis to pay the debtor's bills. breach of the peace :: n. any act which disturbs the public or even one p ... g inappropriately. See also: breach statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll theft :: n. the generic term for all crimes in which a pers ... rglary embezzlement larceny robbery bill :: n. 1) what is commonly called a "check" by which t ... ions, which is falling into disuse. marital rights :: n. an old-fashioned expression for the rights of a ... also: consortium loss of consortium riparian rights :: n. the right of the owner of the land forming the ... elled away from its natural course. confess :: v. in criminal law, to voluntarily state that one ... Miranda warning self-incrimination fact finder (finder of fact) :: n. in a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution ... n facts. See also: question of fact eminent domain :: n. the power of a governmental entity (federal, st ... ngs. See also: condemn condemnation election under the will :: n. in those states which have statutes which give ... arries) left to her under his will. entry of judgment :: n. the placement of a judgment on the official rol ... on the official roll of judgments. equity of redemption :: n. the right of a mortgagor (person owing on a loa ... so: foreclosure mortgage redemption election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented. equity :: n. 1) a venerable group of rights and procedures t ... ry enjoin equitable injunction writ duty of care :: n. a requirement that a person act toward others a ... e also: negligence standard of care expropriation :: n. a taking of property or rights by governmental ... the taker. See also: eminent domain ex officio :: a (ex oh-fish-ee-oh)dj. Latin for "from the office ... ne is president of the corporation. gift in contemplation of death :: n. (called a gift causa mortis by lawyers showing ... ift tax unified estate and gift tax jeopardy :: n. peril, particularly danger of being charged wit ... ar Evers. See also: double jeopardy invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial indictable offense :: n. a crime (offense) for which a Grand Jury rules ... o commit them. See also: indictment joinder of issue :: n. that point in a lawsuit when the defendant has ... matters are to be decided by trial. judgment notwithstanding the verdict :: (N.O.V.) n. reversal of a jury's verdict by the tr ... veredicto. See also: N.O.V. verdict leading the witness :: n. asking a question during a trial or deposition ... n hostile witness leading objection just compensation :: n. 1) in general a fair and reasonable amount of m ... ation make one whole quantum meruit jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied hypothecate :: v. from Greek for "pledge," a generic term for usi ... sion. See also: secured transaction fraud in the inducement :: n. the use of deceit or trick to cause someone to ... nt. See also: extrinsic fraud fraud four corners of an instrument :: n. the term for studying an entire document to und ... solve an ambiguity in its language. firm offer :: n. in contract law, an offer (usually in writing) ... ptance contract counter offer offer frustration of purpose :: n. sometimes called commercial frustration, when u ... n. See also: commercial frustration driving under the influence (DUI) :: n. commonly called "drunk driving," it refers to o ... (DWI), drunk driving, or a "deuce". heat of passion :: n. in a criminal case, when the accused was in an ... oing. See also: manslaughter murder head of household :: n. 1) in federal income tax law, the person filing ... n or daughter. 3) "head of family." grandfather clause :: n. 1) a clause in a statute or zoning ordinance (p ... Such laws are now unconstitutional. failure of consideration :: n. not delivering goods or services when promised ... n. See also: consideration contract Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark certificate of deposit (CD) :: n. a document issued by a bank in return for a dep ... D before the pledged time runs out. cause of action :: n. the basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds ... property. See also: element lawsuit case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline. capital offense :: n. any criminal charge which is punishable by the ... . See also: bail capital punishment certificate of incorporation :: n. document which some states issue to prove a cor ... the articles are sufficient proof. certificate of title :: n. generally, the title document for a motor vehic ... a "pink slip." See also: pink slip Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states. change of circumstances :: n. the principal reason for a court modifying (ame ... ild support divorce spousal support chain of title :: n. the succession of title ownership to real prope ... title conveyance foreclosure title burden of proof :: n. the requirement that the plaintiff (the party b ... ence prima facie weight of evidence breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty Bachelor of Laws :: n. the degree in law from a law school, abbreviate ... troactively. See also: Juris Doctor attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed. articles of incorporation :: n. the basic charter of a corporation which spells ... year's taxes. See also: corporation benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault. board of directors :: n. the policy managers of a corporation or organiz ... he expertise. See also: corporation breach of trust :: n. 1) any act which is in violation of the duties ... ise or confidence. See also: breach breach of promise :: n. historically, the dumping of a female fiancee b ... d no longer exist. See also: breach breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration crime of passion :: n. a defendant's excuse for committing a crime due ... dant. See also: manslaughter murder creditor's rights :: n. the field of law dealing with the legal means a ... also: creditor debt debtor judgment court of law :: n. any tribunal within a judicial system. Under En ... aw. See also: chancery court equity declaration of trust :: n. the document signed by a trustor (settlor) crea ... also: settlor trust trustee trustor deed of trust :: n. a document which pledges real property to secur ... : foreclosure mortgage reconveyance diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000. dissolution of corporation :: n. termination of a corporation, either a) volunta ... e government. See also: corporation degree of kinship :: n. the level of relationship between two persons r ... there is no will. See also: descent court of equity :: n. originally in English common law and in several ... also: chancery court of law equity lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain conflict of interest :: n. a situation in which a person has a duty to mor ... a position adverse to the customer. confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant. conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment conflict of law :: n. a situation in which both state and federal law ... y arose. See also: forum preemption contemplation of death :: n. the anticipation of death in a relatively short ... e also: unified estate and gift tax counter offer :: n. an offer made in response to a previous offer b ... it expire. See also: contract offer cost of completion :: n. the amount of money (damages) required to compl ... d on percentage of work to be done. contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction double jeopardy :: n. placing someone on trial a second time for an o ... that occurred thirty years earlier. not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment running with the land :: adj. permanently part of the title (ownership) to ... title (ownership) to real property. rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule risk of loss :: n. the responsibility a carrier, borrower or user ... e is damage or loss. See also: risk satisfaction of mortgage :: n. a document signed by a lender acknowledging tha ... id off the debt. See also: mortgage scope of employment :: n. actions of an employee which further the busine ... ter and servant respondeat superior setoff :: (offset) n. a claim by a defendant in a lawsuit th ... ee also: affirmative defense offset service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny. return of service :: n. written confirmation under oath by a process se ... ee also: service service of process restraint of trade :: n. in antitrust law, any activity (including agree ... also: antitrust laws monopoly trust proprietary rights :: n. those rights which go with ownership of real pr ... hip of real property or a business. proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation question of fact :: n. in a lawsuit or criminal prosecution, an issue ... also: finding judge question of law question of law :: n. an issue arising in a lawsuit or criminal prose ... udge question of fact trier of fact rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies"). registry of deeds :: n. the records of land title documents kept by the ... mployee to locate. See also: record race to the courthouse :: n. slang for the rule that the first deed, deed of ... e also: deed judgment lien mortgage standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment words of art :: n. 1) specialized language with meaning peculiar t ... cialize in a particular occupation. weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence under the influence :: n. one of many phrases for being drunk on alcoholi ... See also: driving while intoxicated writ of coram nobis :: : (writ of core-uhm noh-bis) n. from Latin for "in ... ment if known at the time of trial. writ of execution :: n. a court order to a sheriff to enforce a judgmen ... ing plaintiff). See also: execution conjugal rights :: n. a spouse's so-called "rights" to the comforts a ... r") in a special room or apartment. law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent trier of fact :: n. the judge or jury responsible for deciding fact ... r referee may be the trier of fact. transfer in contemplation of death :: n. giving property under the belief of the giver t ... lso: gift in contemplation of death subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment tools of trade :: n. in bankruptcy law, the equipment a person requi ... pay creditors. See also: bankruptcy tenancy by the entirety :: n. joint ownership of title by husband and wife, i ... ee also: community property tenancy suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. presumption of innocence :: n. a fundamental protection for a person accused o ... yond a reasonable doubt presumption notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice articles of impeachment :: n. the charges brought (filed) to impeach a public ... y the Senate. See also: impeachment non-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime. of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar multiplicity of suits :: n. several actual or potential lawsuits which shou ... e can order the cases consolidated. mitigation of damages :: n. the requirement that someone injured by another ... he lease) to mitigate his/her loss. loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages loss of bargain :: n. the inability to complete a sale or other busin ... ned in a lawsuit. See also: damages limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony Miranda warning :: n. the requirement, also called the Miranda rule, ... me such a suspect? See also: rights mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne offeree :: n. a person or entity to whom an offer to enter in ... t is made by another (the offeror). offeror :: n. a person or entity who makes a specific proposa ... t. See also: contract offer offeree pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. possession of stolen goods :: n. the crime of possession of goods which one know ... e legal owner. See also: possession possibility of a reverter :: n. the potential that the title to a real property ... further issue. See also: reversion power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. power of appointment :: n. the right to leave property by will, transfer, ... death of the person with the power. power of acceptance :: n. the ability to accept an offer and thus create ... ecide to accept the original offer. out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. official misconduct :: n. improper and/or illegal acts by a public offici ... ty. See also: color of law official official :: 1) adj. referring to an act, document or anything ... tion or business. See also: officer officer :: n. 1) a high-level management official of a corpor ... deputy sheriff or federal marshal. officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule offset :: 1) n. also called a "setoff," the deduction by a d ... e also: counterclaim defense setoff on the stand :: prep. testifying during a trial, in which the witn ... troom and behind a knee-high panel. on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred. offshore corporation :: n. a corporation chartered under the laws of a cou ... nds in accounts out of the country. letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy abuse of process :: n. the use of legal process by illegal, malicious, ... ly correct the error and apologize. abuse of discretion :: n. a polite way of saying a trial judge has made s ... partner's realistic ability to pay. abstract of title :: n. the written report on a title search which show ... e also: chain of title title report act of God :: n. a natural catastrophe which no one can prevent ... atural event. God knows the answer! search and seizure :: n. examination of a person's premises (residence, ... robable cause search search warrant approach the bench :: v. an attorney's movement from the counsel table t ... ake a recess to go to the restroom. agent for acceptance of service :: n. states require that a corporation name an actua ... corporations. See also: corporation acceptance of service :: n. agreement by a defendant (or his/her attorney) ... o accept service. See also: service adoption :: n. the taking of a child into one's family, creati ... the child are met. See also: adopt cost bill :: n. a list of claimed court costs submitted by the ... also: court costs prevailing party all the estate I own :: n. a phrase from a poorly drafted will which means ... he will was written. See also: will confrontation :: n. 1) fight or argument. 2) the right of a crimina ... s. See also: Bill of Rights witness alienation of affections :: n. convincing a wife to leave her husband, often f ... een abolished in almost all states. probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure constitution :: n. the fundamental, underlying document which esta ... ts common law constitutional rights treasury bill :: n. a promissory note issued in multiples of $10,00 ... e also: treasury bond treasury note confession :: n. the statement of one charged with a crime that ... Miranda warning self-incrimination true bill :: n. the written decision of a Grand Jury (signed by ... to the court. See also: indictment cruel and unusual punishment :: n. governmental penalties against convicted crimin ... opted. See also: capital punishment abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien sedition :: n. the federal crime of advocacy of insurrection a ... e rare. See also: espionage treason impound :: v. 1) to collect funds, in addition to installment ... cases. See also: forfeit forfeiture abandoned property :: n. property left behind (often by a tenant) intent ... -use. See also: abandon abandonment passenger :: n. a rider who has paid a fare on a train, bus, ai ... also: common carrier guest statute joint venture :: n. an enterprise entered into by two or more peopl ... s terminated. See also: partnership patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending abandonment :: n. the act of intentionally and permanently giving ... : abandon abandoned property patent guest statute :: n. a state law which sets standards of care by the ... sked to be let out. See also: guest partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner holder :: n. a general term for anyone in possession of prop ... older in due course promissory note silent partner :: n. a non-legal term for an investor who puts money ... partner limited partnership partner confiscate :: v. to take one's goods or property without legal r ... affic. See also: condemnation theft admiralty :: n. concerning activities which occur at sea, inclu ... "proctors." See also: maritime law sex offender :: n. generic term for all persons convicted of crime ... pornography rape sexual harassment partner :: n. 1) one of the co-owners and investors in a "par ... ner limited partnership partnership child custody :: n. a court's determination of which parent, relati ... pport custody divorce joint custody copyright :: 1) n. the exclusive right of the author or creator ... plagiarism public domain trademark gross negligence :: n. carelessness which is in reckless disregard for ... damages negligence punitive damages insurance :: n. a contract (insurance policy) in which the insu ... t clause Workers' Compensation Acts court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court amicus curiae :: n. Latin for "friend of the court," a party or an ... party's presentation to the court. security interest :: n. generic term for the property rights of a lende ... : deed of trust lien mortgage UCC-1 good faith :: n. honest intent to act without taking an unfair a ... plied to all kinds of transactions. criminal :: 1) n. a popular term for anyone who has committed ... so: convict felon habitual criminal liquidate :: v. to sell the assets of a business, paying bills ... other investors. See also: wind up course of employment :: adj. actively involved in a person's employment at ... Acts. See also: scope of employment seizure :: n. the taking by law enforcement officers of poten ... e search and seizure search warrant nominal party :: n. a defendant or a plaintiff included in a lawsui ... ed. See also: necessary party party injunction :: n. a writ (order) issued by a court ordering someo ... t. See also: injunctive relief writ pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape lien :: n. any official claim or charge against property o ... ord's lien mechanic's lien mortgage grandfathered in :: adj. refers to continued allowed use of property a ... or zoning ordinances were adopted. self-help :: n. 1) obtaining relief or enforcing one's rights w ... maximizing of one's opportunities. nominee :: n. 1) a person or entity who is requested or named ... ic office. See also: agent executor inherit :: v. to receive all or a portion of the estate of an ... intestacy intestate succession will indictment :: n. a charge of a felony (serious crime) voted by a ... ictable offense preliminary hearing occupy the field :: v. to preempt (monopolize) an area of statutory la ... ertain topics. See also: preemption commercial law :: n. all the law which applies to the rights, relati ... . See also: Uniform Commercial Code offender :: n. an accused defendant in a criminal case or one ... crime. See also: accused defendant class :: n. in legal (not sociological) terms, all those pe ... nt is given. See also: class action common stock :: n. stock in a corporation in which dividends (payo ... oration preferred stock share stock offense :: n. a crime or punishable violation of law of any t ... type or magnitude. See also: crime endorse (indorse) :: v. 1) to sign one's name to the back of a check, b ... or candidate. See also: endorsement occupancy :: n. 1) living in or using premises, as a tenant or ... ining ownership. See also: occupant cohabitation :: n. living together in the same residence, generall ... xual relationships as cohabitation. subrogation :: n. assuming the legal rights of a person for whom ... also: negligence subrogee subrogor independent contractor :: n. a person or business which performs services fo ... ue independence. See also: employee endorsement :: (indorsement)n. 1) the act of the owner or payee s ... te. See also: negotiable instrument comity :: n. when one court defers to the jurisdiction of an ... of cases to which comity may apply. American Civil Liberties Union :: n. a membership organization founded in 1920 to de ... rk, NY 10036; tel.: (212) 944-9800. common-law marriage :: n. an agreement between a man and woman to live to ... a marriage. See also: cohabitation drawer :: n. the person who signs a bill of exchange. See al ... xchange. See also: bill of exchange state action :: n. in federal Civil Rights Acts, dating back to 18 ... for damages. See also: civil rights general partner :: n. 1) usually one of the owners and operators of a ... ted partnership partner partnership drawee :: n. the party who is to be paid on a bill of exchan ... r check. See also: bill of exchange ingress :: 1) n. entrance. 2) n. the right to enter. 3) v. th ... property. See also: easement egress harassment :: (either harris-meant or huh-rass-meant) n. the act ... See also: harass sexual harassment cloud on title (cloud) :: n. an actual or apparent outstanding claim on the ... ion reconveyance title title report abduction :: n. the criminal taking away of a person by persuas ... g of children. See also: kidnapping gag order :: n. a judge's order prohibiting the attorneys and t ... st day in office, January 22, 1993. in kind :: adj. referring to payment, distribution or substit ... . See also: distribution trust will informed consent :: n. agreement to do something or to allow something ... . See also: consent Miranda warning claim against an estate :: n. upon the death of a person and beginning of pro ... ade to the heirs. See also: probate infringement :: n. 1) a trespassing or illegal entering. 2) in the ... patent plagiarism royalty trademark complaint :: n. the first document filed with the court (actual ... g prayer service of process summons in loco parentis :: prep. (in loh-coh pah-rent-iss) Latin for "instead ... 5, if and when he needs legal help. make :: v. 1) to create something. 2) to sign a check, pro ... xchange check maker promissory note civil :: adj. 1) that part of the law that encompasses busi ... also: civil liberties civil rights robbery :: n. 1) the direct taking of property (including mon ... We've been robbed." See also: theft priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). distress :: 1) n. the self-help taking of another's possession ... rice due to negative circumstances. extrinsic fraud :: n. fraudulent acts which keep a person from obtain ... it. See also: fraud intrinsic fraud abortion :: n. the termination of pregnancy by various means, ... ed abortion continue in the future. reciprocity :: n. mutual exchange of privileges between states, n ... any large states refuse to give it. real property :: n. 1) all land, structures, firmly attached and in ... onal property real estate reversion dominant estate :: n. in real estate law, the property retained when ... See also: easement servient estate privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights. factor :: n. 1) a salesman who sells in his/her own name on ... ing that contributes to the result. reentry :: n. taking back possession and going into real prop ... ages. See also: landlord and tenant disbarment :: n. the ultimate discipline of an attorney, which i ... ation and/or cure. See also: disbar remedy :: n. the means to achieve justice in any matter in w ... gment provisional remedy settlement removal :: n. 1) the change of a legal case from one court to ... a crime or successful impeachment. rider :: n. 1) an attachment to a document which adds to or ... sic bill has support. 3) passenger. presumption :: n. a rule of law which permits a court to assume a ... resumption at all, but a certainty. discrimination :: n. unequal treatment of persons, for a reason whic ... qual rights. See also: civil rights discovery :: n. the entire efforts of a party to a lawsuit and ... ee also: deposition interrogatories treasury note :: n. a promissory note issued by the U.S. Treasury, ... e also: treasury bill treasury bond dower :: n. an old English common law right of a widow to o ... t and distribution widow's election exclusionary rule :: n. the rule that evidence secured by illegal means ... e poisonous tree motion to suppress et ux. :: (et uhks) n. abbreviation for the Latin words et u ... ression a chauvinistic anachronism. embezzler :: n. a person who commits the crime of embezzlement ... r property of an employer or trust. special damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... . See also: damages general damages affirmative action :: n. the process of a business or governmental agenc ... and state affirmative action laws. suffering :: n. the pain, hurt, inconvenience, embarrassment an ... njury negligence pain and suffering affidavit :: n. 1) any written document in which the signer swe ... an affidavit. See also: declaration error :: n. a mistake by a judge in procedure or in substan ... or. See also: harmless error remand encumbrance :: (incumbrance)n. a general term for any claim or li ... and must be paid for at some point. separation agreement :: n. an agreement between two married people who hav ... divorce legal separation separation property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property exception in deed :: n. a notation in a deed of title to real property ... the transfer (conveyance) of title. proffer :: v. to offer evidence in a trial. ... v. to offer evidence in a trial. three strikes, you're out :: n. recent (beginning 1994) legislation enacted in ... ich involve small amounts of money. easement :: n. the right to use the real property of another f ... rstandings at the time of creation. ex rel. :: conj. abbreviation for Latin ex relatione, meaning ... . Archie Johnson v. Hardy Products. proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. devolve :: v. when property is automatically transferred from ... ory sovereign rights to run itself. devolution :: n. 1) the transfer of title to real property by th ... nment to another. See also: devolve right :: 1) n. an entitlement to something, whether to conc ... e also: civil rights marital rights per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. right to privacy :: n. the possible right to be let alone, in absence ... e also: invasion of privacy privacy admission of evidence :: n. a judge's acceptance of evidence in a trial. Se ... ence in a trial. See also: evidence declarant :: n. the person making a statement, usually written ... also: affiant affidavit declaration declaratory relief :: n. a judge's determination (called a "declaratory ... ter. See also: declaratory judgment declaratory judgment :: n. a judgment of a court which determines the righ ... ys it. See also: declaratory relief retroactive :: adj. referring to a court's decision or a statute ... ospective." See also: ex post facto payment in due course :: n. the giving of funds to the holder of a promisso ... nds. See also: holder in due course payable on demand :: adj. a debt on a promissory note or bill of exchan ... e (party to whom the debt is owed). negotiation :: n. 1) the transfer of a check, promissory note, bi ... te. See also: negotiable instrument sanction :: n. 1) a financial penalty imposed by a judge on a ... ction." See also: contempt of court negotiable instrument :: n. check, promissory note, bill of exchange, secur ... bearer paper bill of exchange check person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party or :: conj. either; in the alternative. It is often vita ... n," both must sign to change title. pain and suffering :: n. the physical and mental distress suffered from ... l damages special damages suffering roadside test :: n. a preliminary test law enforcement officers use ... g while intoxicated Miranda warning net estate :: n. the remaining estate of a person who has died, ... alue. See also: estate tax gift tax plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement decriminalization :: n. the repeal or amendment of statutes which made ... gh clinics and other legal sources. forcible entry :: n. the crime of taking possession of a house or ot ... ce after having come in peacefully. reservation :: n. a provision in a deed which keeps (reserves) to ... reserves lot 5." See also: reserve forfeit :: v. to lose property or rights involuntarily as a p ... drunk driving. See also: forfeiture postdated check :: n. a check delivered now with a written date in th ... livery of a bad check was criminal. winding up :: n. liquidating the assets of a corporation or part ... ration cy pres doctrine partnership fictitious defendants :: n. when a party suing (plaintiff) is not sure if h ... are not permitted in federal cases. desertion :: n. the act of abandoning, particularly leaving one ... tody and other post-marital issues. deposition :: n. the taking and recording of testimony of a witn ... See also: deponent depose discovery defraud :: v. to use deceit, falsehoods or trickery to obtain ... longing to another. See also: fraud police powers :: n. from the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, wh ... host of state regulatory statutes. default :: 1) n. failure to respond to a summons and complain ... default judgment notice of default fraud :: n. the intentional use of deceit, a trick or some ... audulent conveyance intrinsic fraud plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner recourse :: n. the right to demand payment to the writer of a ... e. See also: bill of exchange check restraining order :: n. a temporary order of a court to keep conditions ... so: injunction permanent injunction resisting arrest :: n. the crime of using physical force (no matter ho ... referred to merely as "resisting." restrictive endorsement :: n. an endorsement signed on the back of a check, n ... indorsement." See also: endorsement maturity :: n. 1) the date when the payment of the principal a ... exchange legal age promissory note ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. inverse condemnation :: n. the taking of property by a government agency w ... e also: condemnation eminent domain stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate invest :: v. to put money into a business or buy property or ... mplete gamble. See also: investment assume :: v. to take over the liability for a debt on a prom ... he assumption. See also: assumption assumption :: n. the act of taking over a debt as part of paymen ... secures that debt. See also: assume minority :: n. 1) in voting, a side with less than half the vo ... See also: legal age majority minor court costs :: n. fees for expenses that the courts pass on to at ... ee also: cost bill prevailing party larceny :: n. the crime of taking the goods of another person ... : grand larceny petty larceny theft intrinsic fraud :: n. an intentionally false representation (lie) whi ... ts. See also: extrinsic fraud fraud levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution motion to suppress :: n. a motion (usually on behalf of a criminal defen ... eshold." See also: motion in limine landlord and tenant :: n. the name for the area of law concerning renting ... ord lease lessee lessor rent tenant merger :: n. 1) in corporate law, the joining together of tw ... and taking one, and wife the other. asset :: n. generally any item of property that has monetar ... ill and rights to market a product. motion in limine :: (lim-in-nay) n. Latin for "threshold," a motion ma ... o: in limine Miranda warning motion acceptance :: n. 1) receiving something from another with the in ... ered into. See also: contract offer intestate succession :: n. the distribution when a person dies without lea ... sion. See also: intestacy intestate Mann Act :: n. a federal statute making it a crime to transpor ... is five years in a federal prison. account stated :: n. a statement between a creditor or the person to ... ending on the state. See also: debt adjuster :: n. an employee (usually a non-lawyer) of an insura ... e company in approving settlements. bribery :: n. the crime of giving or taking money or some oth ... s which are against company policy. misjoinder :: n. the inclusion of parties (plaintiffs or defenda ... ent transactions. See also: joinder assess :: v. to set a value on property, usually for the pur ... e place upon sale of real property. legatee :: n. a person or organization receiving a gift of an ... eficiary devise devisee legacy will majority :: n. 1) the age when a person can exercise all norma ... t. See also: child infancy minority Magna Carta :: n. Latin for "Great Charter," it was a document de ... s. It is also spelled Magna Charta. legal separation :: n. a court-decreed right to live apart, with the r ... n is rarely used. See also: divorce judgment creditor :: n. the winning plaintiff in a lawsuit to whom the ... 's rights judgment prevailing party joint :: adj., adv. referring to property, rights or obliga ... ncy joint venture tenancy in common boycott :: n. organized refusal to purchase products or patro ... e laws. See also: secondary boycott counterclaim :: n. a retaliatory claim by a defendant against a pl ... d. See also: answer cross-complaint molestation :: n. the crime of sexual acts with children up to th ... of rape. See also: pedophilia rape business invitee :: n. a person entering commercial premises for the p ... to the contrary. See also: invitee letter of credit :: n. a document issued by a bank guaranteeing to pro ... ong-distance business transactions. evasion of tax :: n. the intentional attempt to avoid paying taxes t ... rs. See also: estate tax income tax failure of issue :: n. when someone dies leaving no children or other ... ildren or other direct descendants. martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law last clear chance :: n. a rule of law in determining responsibility for ... contributory negligence negligence interrogation :: n. questioning of a suspect or witness by law enfo ... the poisonous tree Miranda warning unlawful assembly :: n. the act of assembling for the purpose of starti ... gton and Chicago in the late 1960s. approach the witness :: v. a request by an attorney to the judge for permi ... t, and it is almost always granted. limited liability :: n. the maximum amount a person participating in a ... ted damages partnership shareholder kidnapping :: (also spelled kidnaping) n. the taking of a person ... but now applies to adults as well. international law :: n. treaties between countries; multi-lateral agree ... all nations. See also: World Court muniment of title :: n. documentary evidence of title to real property. ... also: deed quiet title action title natural law :: n. 1) standards of conduct derived from traditiona ... eated by mankind through the state. maxims :: n. a collection of legal truisms which are used as ... e and the ordinary habits of life." justice :: n. 1) fairness. 2) moral rightness. 3) a scheme or ... e appellate courts. See also: court covenant that runs with the land :: n. a promise contained in a deed to land or real e ... l future owners. See also: covenant beneficial interest :: n. the right of a party to some profit, distributi ... benefits. See also: contract trust arrest :: v. 1) to take or hold a suspected criminal with le ... anda warning probable cause warrant damages :: n. the amount of money which a plaintiff (the pers ... liquidated damages special damages vested :: adj. referring to having an absolute right or titl ... ed. See also: vest vested remainder draft :: 1) n. a bill of exchange or check in which one par ... s. See also: bill of exchange check power :: n. the right, authority and ability to take some a ... g legal rights and many other acts. disturbing the peace :: n. upsetting the quiet and good order particularly ... able by fine or brief term in jail. third-party beneficiary :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract but h ... tract as a third-party beneficiary. jury :: n. one of the remarkable innovations of the Englis ... hallenge sequester venire voir dire third party :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract or a ... beneficiary third-party beneficiary negligence :: n. failure to exercise the care toward others whic ... gence per se res ipsa loquitur tort pour over will :: n. a will of a person who has already executed a t ... invalid trust. See also: trust will mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege malice aforethought :: n. 1) the conscious intent to cause death or great ... : first degree murder malice murder malicious prosecution :: n. filing a lawsuit with the intention of creating ... vor of the victim. See also: malice petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum malpractice :: n. An act or continuing conduct of a professional ... eed. See also: errors and omissions post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail. acquit :: v. what a jury or judge sitting without a jury doe ... ndant not guilty. See also: verdict pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer make one whole :: v. to pay or award damages sufficient to put the p ... fault of another. See also: damages preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other. predecease :: v. to die before someone else, as "if my brother, ... estate I give to his son, Eugene." preemptive right :: n. the right of a shareholder in a corporation to ... also: corporation shareholder stock preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy mayhem :: 1) n. the criminal act of disabling, disfiguring o ... so: aggravated assault assault maim may :: v. a choice to act or not, or a promise of a possi ... sion or regulation. See also: shall precedent :: 1) n. a prior reported opinion of an appeals court ... to perform. See also: stare decisis precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. petition :: 1) n. a formal written request to a court for an o ... dent. See also: divorce motion writ practice :: 1) n. custom or habit as shown by repeated action, ... s "she practices law in St. Louis." malice :: n. a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a ... cution murder public figure slander malfeasance :: n. intentionally doing something either legally or ... sponsibility. See also: misfeasance prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment mandate :: n. 1) any mandatory order or requirement under sta ... See also: mandamus writ of mandate voluntary bankruptcy :: n. the filing for bankruptcy by a debtor who belie ... kruptcy court. See also: bankruptcy mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder market value :: n. the price which a seller of property would rece ... ich are often called "comparables." plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea preferred stock :: n. a class of shares of stock in a corporation whi ... on stock corporation dividend stock master and servant :: n. the body of law, including statutes and legal d ... lso: employment respondeat superior pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors. plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant master :: n. 1) employer, in the area of law known as "maste ... ter and servant respondeat superior marketable title :: n. the title to real property which has no encumbr ... e. See also: contract real property marriage :: n. the joining of a male and female in matrimony b ... of time without legal formalities. marked for identification :: adj. documents or objects presented during a trial ... exhibit lay a foundation objection pledge :: v. to deposit personal property as security for a ... ise to do something. See also: pawn Massachusetts Trust :: n. a business in which the investors give manageme ... provide for eventual distribution. possess :: v. to own, have title to, occupy, physically hold ... ng the estate. See also: possession a priori assumption :: (ah-pree-ory) n. from Latin, an assumption that is ... when the reality is not so certain. picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess material :: adj. relevant and significant. In a lawsuit, "mate ... contract is not a material breach. posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. pilferage :: n. a crime of theft of little things, usually from ... ipments or baggage. See also: theft maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing marital deduction :: n. an estate tax deduction allowed a surviving spo ... community property estate tax trust political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues. manslaughter :: n. the unlawful killing of another person without ... laughter. See also: homicide murder pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene material witness :: n. a person who apparently has information about t ... e. See also: material trial witness pretermitted heir :: n. the child of a person who has written a will in ... cified $10,000 each. See also: heir lis pendens :: (lease pen-dense) n. Latin for "a suit pending," a ... ob can be penalized by court order. literary property :: n. the writings of an author which entitles him/he ... as copyrighted. See also: copyright promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel promissory note :: n. a written promise by a person (variously called ... lso: interest obligee obligor usury promoter :: n. a person who puts together a business, particul ... y effort and not by assets or cash. lineup :: n. a law enforcement method used in an attempt to ... entification is precarious at best. liquidated damages :: n. an amount of money agreed upon by both parties ... airness. See also: contract damages promotional stock :: n. stock issued in a newly formed corporation and ... assets or money. See also: promoter promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant litigious :: adj. referring to a person who constantly brings o ... e called "professional plaintiffs." procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made. probative value :: n. evidence which is sufficiently useful to prove ... prior actions. See also: probative probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege proceeding :: n. any legal filing, hearing, trial and/or judgmen ... edings," as in "legal proceedings." process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons living trust :: n. sometimes called an inter vivos (Latin for "wit ... thrift clause trust trustee trustor product liability :: n. the responsibility of manufacturers, distributo ... e known. See also: warrant warranty process server :: n. a person who serves (delivers) legal papers in ... table. See also: service of process lineal descendant :: n. a person who is in direct line to an ancestor, ... See also: descent and distribution limited partnership :: n. a special type of partnership which is very com ... mited liability partner partnership limited jurisdiction :: n. courts' authority over certain types of cases s ... value. See also: court jurisdiction proximate cause :: n. a happening which results in an event, particul ... also: intervening cause negligence protest :: 1) v. to complain in some public way about any act ... dishonored (not paid by the bank). proxy :: n. 1) someone who is authorized to serve in one's ... d members and convention delegates. actual controversy :: n. a true legal dispute which leads to a genuine l ... al outcome. See also: friendly suit public administrator :: n. a county official with the responsibility to ha ... ian is available. See also: probate public :: 1) n. the people of the nation, state, county, dis ... lands and public and private roads. prudent man rule :: n. the requirement that a trustee, investment mana ... (1994). See also: fiduciary trustee protective custody :: n. the act of law enforcement officials in placing ... ical harm or death if they testify. prostitution :: n. the profession of performing sexual acts for mo ... so: pander panderer pimp prostitute proprietor :: n. the owner of anything, but particularly the own ... siness operated by that individual. property tax :: n. an annual governmental tax on real property or ... are made. See also: ad valorem tax property damage :: n. injury to real or personal property through ano ... l value. See also: damages property prosecute :: v. 1) in criminal law, to charge a person with a c ... rney General prosecution prosecutor prosecution :: n. 1) in criminal law, the government attorney cha ... se). See also: prosecute prosecutor prostitute :: n. a person who receives payment for sexual interc ... also: pander panderer prostitution prospectus :: n. a detailed statement by a corporation required ... rporation limited partnership stock prosecutor :: n. generic term for the government's attorney in a ... ee also: Attorney General prosecute probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will pro tem :: 1) adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporari ... as "Sam Collins is Pro Tem today." lower court :: n. 1) any court of lesser rank, such as municipal ... ruled Defendant had no basis for:." presiding judge :: n. 1) in both state and federal appeals court, the ... and chairs meetings of the judges. magistrate :: n. 1) a generic term for any judge of a court, or ... ce of the peace preliminary hearing action :: n. a lawsuit in which one party (or parties) sues ... . See also: cause of action lawsuit actionable :: adj. when enough facts or circumstances exist to m ... ction lawsuit malicious prosecution price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. prevailing party :: n. the winner in a lawsuit. Many contracts, leases ... ed before or after trial has begun. McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription preliminary injunction :: n. a court order made in the early stages of a law ... ent injunction temporary injunction preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information mail box rule :: n. in contract law, making a written offer or acce ... nse in hand when the time runs out. premises :: n. 1) in real estate, land and the improvements on ... t). See also: real estate structure prenuptial agreement :: n. also called an antenuptial agreement, a written ... been "taken" by a previous spouse. prescription :: n. the method of acquiring an easement upon anothe ... ty. See also: prescriptive easement prerogative writ :: n. an historic generic term for any writ (court or ... ls or another court. See also: writ use tax :: n. a state tax on goods purchased in another state ... e" tax equivalent to its sales tax. prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning living will :: n. also called "a durable power of attorney," it i ... upport. See also: power of attorney private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement private nuisance :: n. the interference with an individual's peaceful ... See also: nuisance public nuisance privileged communication :: n. statements and conversations made under circums ... See also: attorney-client privilege privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract pro rata :: (proh rat-ah or proh ray-tah) adj. from Latin for ... e year in which he/she holds title. pro hac vice :: : (proh hock vee-chay) prep. Latin for "this time ... association with a local attorney. pro forma :: 1) prep. Latin for "as a matter of form," the phra ... se in annual sales or 6% inflation. private carrier :: n. one who provides transportation or delivery of ... also: common carrier guest statute privacy :: n. the right to be free of unnecessary public scru ... lso: public figure right to privacy long-arm statute :: n. law which gives a local state court jurisdictio ... rt jurisdiction over the defendant. primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. loss :: n. 1) the value placed on injury or damages due to ... t and the income. See also: damages principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior treasury bond :: n. a long-term bond issued by the U.S. Treasury. S ... e also: treasury bill treasury note loiter :: v. to linger or hang around in a public place or b ... kenness or being a public nuisance. prior(s) :: n. slang for a criminal defendant's previous recor ... es for the third felony conviction. prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone). maim :: v. to inflict a serious bodily injury, including m ... to a prison term. See also: mayhem mental cruelty :: n. a term, rapidly going out of fashion and out of ... history. See also: cruelty divorce moral turpitude :: n. gross violation of standards of moral conduct, ... r penalty for a criminal defendant. moratorium :: n. 1) any suspension of activity, particularly vol ... to normal activities and earnings. abut :: v. when two parcels of real property touch each ot ... of real property touch each other. acceleration :: n. 1) speeding up the time when there is vesting ( ... See also: acceleration clause vest arbitrator :: n. one who conducts an arbitration, and serves as ... he other two. See also: arbitration moot court :: n. law school exercise in which students argue bot ... fferent law schools. See also: moot monopoly :: n. a business or inter-related group of businesses ... ust laws license restraint of trade abstention doctrine :: n. when the Supreme Court refuses to exercise its ... being appealed from a state court. monument :: n. 1) an established landmark which a surveyor use ... torn down or substantially altered. acceleration clause :: n. a provision in a contract or promissory note th ... . See also: acceleration assumption mortgage :: n. a document in which the owner pledges his/her/i ... losure notice of default trust deed occupational hazard :: n. a danger or risk inherent in certain employment ... e of death or injury while at work. occupational disease :: n. an illness resulting from long-term employment ... tion for a work-related disability. motion for a summary judgment :: n. a written request for a judgment in the moving ... strict procedures. See also: motion motion for dismissal :: (non-suit) n. application by a defendant in a laws ... otion for nonsuit. See also: motion access :: n. 1) in real estate the right and ability to get ... See also: DNA egress paternity suit motion for a new trial :: n. a request made by the loser for the case to be ... hstanding the verdict motion N.O.V. mortgagee :: n. the person or business making a loan that is se ... money. See also: mortgage mortgagor accept :: v. to receive something with approval and intentio ... ervice" (delivery) of legal papers. motion :: n. a formal request made to a judge for an order o ... g, an oral motion may be permitted. abrogate :: v. to annul or repeal a law or pass legislation th ... ons of a contract. See also: repeal omission :: n. 1) failure to perform an act agreed to, where t ... of contract negligence reformation order to show cause :: n. a judge's written mandate that a party appear i ... vernmental agency. See also: O.S.C. order :: 1) n. every direction or mandate of a judge or a c ... defendant. See also: judge judgment oral contract :: n. an agreement made with spoken words and either ... itten. See also: agreement contract option :: n. a right to purchase property or require another ... ng or upon expiration of the lease. M'Naughten rule :: n. a traditional "right and wrong" test of legal i ... temporary insanity Twinkie defense public defender :: n. an elected or appointed public official (usuall ... to convicted indigents for appeals. ouster :: n. 1) the wrongful dispossession (putting out) of ... ainst his/her expectations or will. ostensible agent :: n. a person who has been given the appearance of b ... rent authority ostensible authority original jurisdiction :: n. the authority of a court to hold a trial, as di ... l judgments. See also: jurisdiction opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified. modification :: n. a change in an existing court order or judgment ... terms of child support and custody. on file :: prep. having been formally filed with the clerk of ... eading is "on file." See also: file on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent omnibus clause :: n. 1) an automobile insurance policy clause which ... he beneficiaries named in the will. modus operandi :: (mode-us ah-purr-and-ee or ah-purr-and-eye) n. fro ... es to disguise a fraudulent scheme. on or about :: prep. a phrase referring to a date or place used i ... reets:." See also: charge complaint able-bodied :: adj. physically capable of working at a job or in ... of paying alimony or child support. opening statement :: n. the explanation by the attorneys for both sides ... rgument. See also: closing argument open court :: n. the conduct of judicial proceedings (trials, he ... which are usually held in chambers. abeyance :: 1) n. when the owner- ship of property has not bee ... 2) legal jargon for "undetermined." accessory :: n. a second-string player who helps in the commiss ... responsible. See also: aid and abet obscene :: adj., adv. a highly subjective reference to materi ... en I see it." See also: pornography non-discretionary trust :: n. a trust in which the trustee is directed to inv ... ower in the matter. See also: trust non-contestability clause :: n. an insurance policy provision which requires th ... claim is made by the policyholder. non-conforming use :: n. the existing use (residential, commercial, agri ... eneral plan grandfathered in zoning necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party non-feasance :: n. the failure of an agent (employee) to perform a ... . See also: malfeasance misfeasance accord and satisfaction :: n. an agreement to accept less than is legally due ... h" practicality. See also: novation murder :: n. the killing of a human being by a sane person, ... premeditation second degree murder N.O.V. :: adj. shorthand acronym of Latin for non obstante v ... notwithstanding the verdict verdic non-suit :: n. a ruling by the judge in a lawsuit either when ... the defendant. See also: dismissal negative pregnant :: n. a denial of an allegation in which a person act ... suse, just the amount and the date. nominal damages :: n. a small amount of money awarded to a plaintiff ... had been damaged. See also: damages nisi prius :: : (nee-see pree-us) adj. Latin for "unless first," ... : original jurisdiction trial court accounts receivable :: n. the amounts of money due or owed to a business ... sidering the chances of collection. negligence per se :: (purr say) n. negligence due to the violation of a ... riving. See also: negligence per se next friend :: n. a person (often a relative) who voluntarily hel ... filed. See also: guardian ad litem no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain no fault divorce :: n. divorces (dissolutions) in which neither spouse ... and South Dakota. See also: divorce nolo contendere :: (no-low kahn-ten-durr-ray) n. Latin for "I will no ... f no contest." See also: no contest nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi. no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence not guilty :: n. 1) plea of a person who claims not to have comm ... t guilty by reason of insanity plea municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court nunc pro tunc :: (nuhnk proh tuhnk) adj. Latin for "now for then," ... r actuality of a bigamous marriage. nullity :: n. something which may be treated as nothing, as i ... of a marriage by a court judgment. motive :: n. in criminal investigation the probable reason a ... is not necessary to prove a crime. nuisance :: n. the unreasonable, unwarranted and/or unlawful u ... evening). See also: public nuisance O.R. :: n. short for "own recognizance," meaning the judge ... "OR-ed." See also: own recognizance motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection oath :: n. 1) a swearing to tell the truth, the whole trut ... ountry. See also: affidavit perjury novation :: n. agreement of parties to a contract to substitut ... . See also: accord and satisfaction notorious possession :: n. occupation of real property or holding personal ... e is as if the person is the owner. note :: n. a promissory note, a written statement of debt ... the note. See also: promissory note notary public :: n. a person authorized by the state in which the p ... he state which appoints the notary. accomplice :: n. someone who assists in the commission of a crim ... cipal criminal. See also: accessory notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice accommodation :: n. 1) a favor done without compensation (pay or co ... ke a deal work. See also: guarantor multifarious :: adj., adv. reference to a lawsuit in which either ... ed misjoinder. See also: misjoinder accretion :: n. 1) in real estate, the increase of the actual l ... cted event. See also: probate trust notice to quit :: n. the notice given by a landlord (owner) to a ten ... h-to-month notice unlawful detainer abatement :: n. 1) the removal of a problem which is against pu ... eneficiary in full. See also: abate outbuilding :: n. a structure not connected with the primary resi ... arn, cabana, pool house or cottage. peer review :: n. an examination and evaluation of the performanc ... claiming damages due to negligence. peer :: n. an equal. A "jury of one's peers," to which cri ... eria. See also: jury of one's peers acknowledgment :: n. the section at the end of a document where a no ... me leases and various other papers. metes and bounds :: (meets and bounds) n. a surveyor's description of ... of a parcel or lot are first drawn. mesne :: : (mean, with a silent s) adj. from Norman French ... e profits." See also: mesne profits penalty :: n. 1) in criminal law, a money fine or forfeiture ... contractor fails to complete a job. per se :: (purr say) adj. Latin for "by itself," meaning inh ... e statement. See also: libel per se per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author. merchantable :: adj. a product of a high enough quality to make it ... taminated or flawed. See also: sale peeping tom :: n. a person who stealthily peeks into windows, hol ... n the basis of invasion of privacy. military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate payable :: 1) adj. referring to a debt which is due. A debt m ... liabilities (debts) of a business. pawn :: v. to pledge an item of personal property as secur ... nsed by the state. See also: pledge mirror wills :: n. the wills of a husband and wife which are ident ... d each names the other as executor. paternity suit :: n. a lawsuit, usually by a mother, to prove that a ... d to a prompt and quiet settlement. payment in full :: n. the giving of all funds due to another. This la ... ee accepts the payment as complete. peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order mining claim :: n. a description by boundaries of real property in ... g within a specific period of time. minutes :: n. 1) the written record of meetings, particularly ... court reporter if recorded at all. acknowledge :: v. 1) generally to admit something, whether bad, g ... recording. See also: acknowledgment per stirpes :: (purr stir-peas) adj. Latin for "by roots," by rep ... descent and distribution trust will peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion. memorandum :: n. 1) a brief writing, note, summary or outline. 2 ... r "The decision below is affirmed." permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards. permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability permit :: 1) v. to allow by silence, agreement or giving a l ... f public revenue. See also: license mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty mechanic's lien :: n. the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, ar ... ll sue for the debt. See also: lien permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction mental anguish :: n. mental suffering which includes fright, feeling ... See also: damages mental suffering performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien abandon :: v. to intentionally and permanently give up, surre ... lso: abandoned property abandonment mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury permanent disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts net :: : n., adj. the amount of money or value remaining ... or net estate. See also: net estate perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood. patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent misadventure :: n. a death due to unintentional accident without a ... me. See also: homicide manslaughter parcel :: n. a defined piece of real estate, usually resulti ... See also: real estate real property paramount title :: n. a right to real property which prevails over an ... n's claim of title. See also: title paralegal :: n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiri ... h less than that for the attorneys. accrue :: v. 1) growing or adding to, such as interest on a ... the contract (anticipatory breach). pardon :: 1) v. to use the executive power of a Governor or ... also: amnesty commutation reprieve mitigating circumstances :: n. in criminal law, conditions or happenings which ... ity heat of passion Twinkie defense parental neglect :: n. a crime consisting of acts or omissions of a pa ... usive or sexually predatory person. parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward par :: n. 1) an equal level. 2) the face value of a stock ... common stock preferred stock stock panel :: n. the list of people selected to appear for jury ... or jury duty. See also: jury venire overt act :: n. in criminal law, an action which might be innoc ... terrorist bombing of that building. overrule :: v. 1) to reject an attorney's objection to a quest ... : appellate court objection sustain overcharge :: v. 1) to charge more than a posted or advertised p ... osecutor to intimidate the accused. output contract :: n. an agreement in which a producer agrees to sell ... h it may have to store away a glut. own recognizance :: (O.R.) n. the basis for a judge allowing a person ... n recognizance. See also: bail O.R. owner :: n. one who has legal title or right to something. ... ke one a legal owner. See also: own pander :: 1) v. to solicit customers for a prostitute. 2) n. ... ons or favors. See also: prostitute palimony :: n. a substitute for alimony in cases in which the ... the relationship. See also: alimony paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader parish :: n. 1) a geographic area served by a church (partic ... overnmental equivalent of a county. parody :: n. the humorous use of an existing song, play, or ... l significance. See also: copyright party wall :: n. a wall shared by two adjoining premises which i ... the property of one of the parties. misfeasance :: n. management of a business, public office or othe ... n of the law. See also: malfeasance accusation :: n. 1) in legal terms accusation means officially c ... im of wrongdoing by another person. party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent misdemeanor :: n. a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or coun ... tion are felonies. See also: felony passive :: adj. referring to being inactive. A "passive trust ... ment and interest on bank accounts. patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent patent ambiguity :: n. an obvious inconsistency in the language of a w ... the language of a written document. misappropriation :: n. the intentional, illegal use of the property or ... mbezzlement fiduciary larceny theft misrepresentation :: n. the crime of misstating facts to obtain money, ... etenses." See also: false pretenses partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. partial breach :: n. the failure to meet a term of a contract which ... g in the missing or expected items. parole :: n. 1) the release of a convicted criminal defendan ... sed he will not take up arms again. parol evidence rule :: n. if there is evidence in writing (such as a sign ... or contradict the written document. partial disability :: n. the result of an injury which permanently reduc ... erson's normal functioning is gone. partial verdict :: n. in a criminal trial, the result when the jury f ... re other charges. See also: verdict mistake :: n. 1) an error in comprehending facts, meaning of ... time. See also: contract rescission participate :: v. to invest and then receive a part or share, as ... he estate of a person who has died. mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. recording acts :: n. the statutes of each state which established th ... ecorders of Deeds. See also: record tax evasion :: n. intentional and fraudulent attempt to escape pa ... o reduce the amount of payable tax. tax return :: n. the form to be filed with a taxing authority by ... able to the taxpayer. See also: tax Tax Court :: n. a federal agency with courts in major cities wh ... Appeals. See also: court income tax tax :: n. a governmental assessment (charge) upon propert ... unified estate and gift tax use tax draw :: v. 1) to prepare any document. 2) specifically to ... signed a bill of exchange or check. tax sale :: n. an auction sale of a taxpayer's property conduc ... government to collect unpaid taxes. temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction tenancy at will :: n. occupation of real property owned by another un ... right to occupy. See also: tenancy tenancy at sufferance :: n. a "hold-over" tenancy after a lease has expired ... y tenancy at will unlawful detainer tenancy :: n. the right to occupy real property permanently, ... rety tenancy in common tenant title temporary insanity :: n. in a criminal prosecution, a defense by the acc ... diminished capacity insanity intent take :: v. to gain or obtain possession, including the rec ... eal property or stealing an object. tainted evidence :: n. in a criminal trial, information which has been ... e search and seizure search warrant surety :: n. a guarantor of payment or performance if anothe ... or entity. See also: bond guarantor surrender :: v. 1) to turn over possession of real property, ei ... lf up to law enforcement officials. surcharge :: n. an additional charge of money made because it w ... for being late in making a payment. Supreme Court :: n. 1) the highest court in the United States, whic ... rt in other states. See also: court supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue. surrogate :: n. 1) a person acting on behalf of another or a su ... or probates, estates and adoptions. survivorship :: n. the right to receive full title or ownership du ... onvenience. See also: joint tenancy syndicate :: n. a joint venture among individuals and/or corpor ... l dissolve. See also: joint venture swindle :: v. to cheat through trick, device, false statement ... orm of theft. See also: fraud theft swear :: v. 1) to declare under oath that one will tell the ... ee also: notary public oath perjury suspended sentence :: n. in criminal law, a penalty applied by a judge t ... may be enforced. See also: sentence tenancy in common :: n. title to property (usually real property, but i ... on. See also: joint tenancy tenancy tender :: 1) v. to present to another person an unconditiona ... he tender. See also: delivery offer title search :: n. the examination of county records for the prope ... e escrow lien title title insurance toll :: v. 1) to delay, suspend or hold off the effect of ... bridge or take passage on a ferry. title report :: n. the written analysis of the status of title to ... lso: abstract title title insurance title insurance :: n. a policy issued by an insurance company guarant ... : chain of title title title search title abstract :: n. a history of the chain of title. See also: abst ... chain of title. See also: abstract tontine :: n. a rare agreement among several persons who agre ... e the remaining assets and profits. tort :: n. from French for "wrong," a civil wrong or wrong ... nce slander trespass wrongful death trade name :: n. a name of a business or one of its products whi ... t is different. See also: trademark trade fixture :: n. a piece of equipment on or attached to the real ... uch damage. See also: fixture trade trade :: 1) n. a business or occupation for profit, particu ... rade fixture trade secret trademark tort claims act :: n. a federal or state act which, under certain con ... . See also: Federal Tort Claims Act title :: n. 1) ownership of real property or personal prope ... ink slip real property title search timely :: adj. within the time required by statute, court ru ... ed on the 61st day is not "timely." testamentary disposition :: n. how the terms of a will divide the testator's ( ... named beneficiaries. See also: will testamentary trust :: n. a trust created by the terms of a will. Example ... vivos trust living trust trust will testamentary capacity :: n. having the mental competency to execute a will ... lso: competent undue influence will tenure :: n. 1) in real property, the right to possess the p ... e a probationary period has passed. tentative trust :: n. a bank account deposited in the name of the dep ... hdrawn at any time. See also: trust testator :: n. a person who has written a will which is in eff ... me of his/her death. See also: will testify :: v. to give oral evidence under oath in answer to q ... deposition evidence testimony trial time served :: n. the period a criminal defendant has been in jai ... o the defendant. See also: sentence tide lands :: n. land between the high and low tides, which is u ... ch fronts on the sea at that point. three-day notice :: n. a notice to pay delinquent rent or quit (leave ... nd tenant service unlawful detainer Thirty-day notice :: n. a notice by a landlord to a tenant on a month-t ... e also: landlord and tenant service supra :: (sooh-prah) Latin for "above," in legal briefs and ... d as Guinn v. United States, supra. superseding cause :: n. the same as an "intervening cause" or "superven ... : intervening cause proximate cause stock in trade :: n. the inventory of merchandise held for sale. ... ntory of merchandise held for sale. stock option :: n. the right to purchase stock in the future at a ... hares. See also: option share stock stock certificate :: n. printed document which states the name, incorpo ... . See also: corporation share stock stock :: 1) n. inventory (goods) of a business meant for sa ... siness. See also: share shareholder stipulation :: n. an agreement, usually on a procedural matter, b ... g, signed and filed with the court. stop and frisk :: n. a law enforcement officer's search for a weapon ... h search and seizure search warrant straw man :: n. 1) a person to whom title to property or a busi ... a trail will mislead hunting dogs). sua sponte :: : (sooh-uh spahn-tay) adj. Latin for "of one's own ... ot have jurisdiction over the case. strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store. strict liability :: n. automatic responsibility (without having to pro ... bility negligence res ipsa loquitur strict construction :: (narrow construction) n. interpreting the Constitu ... See also: constitution construction stay :: n. a court-ordered short-term delay in judicial pr ... r case. See also: stay of execution statutory rape :: n. sexual intercourse with a female below the lega ... majority minority molestation rape stakeholder :: n. a person having in his/her possession (holding) ... ment or agreement. See also: escrow standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction spousal support :: n. payment for support of an ex-spouse (or a spous ... but two. See also: alimony divorce spot zoning :: n. a provision in a general plan which benefits a ... . See also: grandfathered in zoning spontaneous exclamation :: n. a sudden statement caused by the speaker having ... et hit the girl." See also: hearsay star chamber proceedings :: n. any judicial or quasi-judicial action, trial or ... ate 1960s. See also: kangaroo court stare decisis :: : (stah-ree duh-sigh-sis) n. Latin for "to stand b ... pellate court lower court precedent FOB :: 1) adj. short for free on board, meaning shipped t ... cost. 2) Friend of Bill (Clinton). for value received :: prep. a phrase used in a promissory note, a bill o ... hout stating what that payment was. status conference :: n. a pre-trial meeting of attorneys before a judge ... g a trial date. See also: discovery state :: n. 1) the federal or state government and any of i ... d States. 3) a nation's government. subchapter S corporation :: n. the choice by a small corporation to be treated ... ing attorney. See also: corporation subcontractor :: n. a person or business which has a contract (as a ... ependent contractor mechanic's lien successive sentences :: n. in criminal law, the imposition of the penalty ... uld be 15 years. See also: sentence suicide :: n. the intentional killing of oneself. Ironically, ... e manslaughter second degree murder succession :: n. the statutory rules of inheritance of a dead pe ... istribution." See also: inheritance substitution :: n. putting one person in place of another, in part ... See also: substitution of attorney substituted service :: n. accomplishing service (delivery) of legal docum ... ee also: service service of process suit :: n. generic term for any filing of a complaint (or ... "suit in equity." See also: lawsuit sum certain :: n. a specific amount stated in a contract or negot ... r redecoration of Williams' house." supersedeas :: (sooh-purr-said-ee-uhs) Latin for "you shall desis ... . See also: appeal court of appeals summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ summation :: n. the final argument of an attorney at the close ... 's case. See also: closing argument summary judgment :: n. a court order ruling that no factual issues rem ... tion summary adjudication of issues substitute in :: v. to take over a case from another lawyer, which ... See also: substitution of attorney substantial performance :: n. in the law of contracts, fulfillment of the obl ... also: contract specific performance subordination :: n. allowing a debt or claim which has priority to ... . See also: subordination agreement subordination agreement :: n. a written contract in which a lender who has se ... ty records. See also: subordination submitted :: n. the conclusion of all evidence and argument in ... , no further argument is permitted. sublease :: n. the lease to another of all or a portion of pre ... and sublease. See also: lease rent subject to :: adj. referring to the acquisition of title to real ... : assumption deed of trust mortgage subpena :: (subpoena): (suh-pea-nah) n. an order of the court ... ubpena duces tecum subpoena witness subpena duces tecum :: : (suh-pea-nah dooh-chess-take-uhm or dooh-kess-ta ... ng a court order. See also: witness subscribe :: v. 1) to sign at the end of a document. The courts ... r periodical magazine or newspaper. subrogor :: n. a person or entity that transfers his/her/its l ... ges. See also: subrogation subrogee subrogee :: n. the person or entity that assumes the legal rig ... aid. See also: subrogation subrogor subpoena :: n. the original spelling of subpena, still commonl ... e also: subpena subpena duces tecum trade secret :: n. a process, method, plan, formula or other infor ... e invention. See also: patent trade trademark :: n. a distinctive design, picture, emblem, logo or ... ing trademark. See also: trade name white collar crime :: n. a generic term for crimes involving commercial ... committed by "blue collar" workers. widow :: n. a woman whose husband died while she was marrie ... nefits traceable to the ex-husband. whiplash :: n. a common neck and/or back injury suffered in au ... r damages due to negligent driving. wet reckless :: n. a plea to a charge of reckless driving which wa ... conviction. See also: plea bargain watered stock :: n. shares of stock of a corporation which have bee ... . See also: corporation share stock widow's election :: n. the choice a widow makes between accepting what ... nt and distribution succession will will :: n. a written document which leaves the estate of t ... will and testament probate testator witness :: 1) n. a person who testifies under oath in a trial ... lso: deposition evidence trial will withdrawal :: n. 1) in criminal law, leaving a conspiracy to com ... count. See also: check renunciation wiretap :: n. using an electronic device to listen in on tele ... invasion of privacy probable cause will contest :: n. a lawsuit challenging the validity of a will an ... so: in terrorem clause probate will waste :: n. 1) any damage to real property by a tenant whic ... ch may include poisonous effluents. warranty :: n. a written statement of good quality of merchand ... of the contract. See also: warrant voidable :: adj. capable of being made void. Example: a contra ... ot necessarily void. See also: void voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge void for vagueness :: adj. referring to a statute defining a crime which ... o the states by the 14th Amendment. viz :: prep. to wit, or namely. Example: "There were seve ... d broken windows." See also: to wit vigilante :: n. someone who takes the law into his/her own hand ... lester of her child is a vigilante. voting trust :: n. a trust which solicits vote proxies of sharehol ... ation proxy shareholder stockholder waive :: v. to voluntarily give up something, including not ... the other state). See also: waiver warrant :: 1) n. an order (writ) of a court which directs a l ... e search and seizure search warrant ward :: n. 1) a person (usually a minor) who has a guardia ... ouncil district. See also: guardian wanton :: adj. 1) grossly negligent to the extent of being r ... sexually immoral and unrestrained. waiver :: n. the intentional and voluntary giving up of some ... ssed on the record. See also: waive witness stand :: n. a chair at the end of the judge's bench on the ... estimony clearly. See also: witness Workers' Compensation Acts :: n. state statutes which establish liability of emp ... rs' compensation insurance company. pendente lite :: (pen-den-tay lee-tay) adj. Latin for awaiting the ... enforced until the lawsuit is over. public utility :: n. any organization which provides services to the ... nder state laws. See also: monopoly National Labor Relations Board :: n. an independent regulatory commission created in ... see union and organizing elections. inter se :: (in-tur say)prep. Latin for "among themselves," me ... or only to the trustees as a group. equal opportunity :: 1) n. a right supposedly guaranteed by both federa ... be so. See also: affirmative action self-executing :: adj. immediately effective without further action, ... party the right to try to collect. substantive law :: n. law which establishes principles and creates an ... are conducted. See also: procedure grand theft :: n. See also: grand larceny ... n. See also: grand larceny incriminate :: v. to make a statement in which one admits that he ... d to information which would be so. solicitor :: n. an English attorney who may perform all legal s ... s or barristers. See also: attorney drop dead date :: n. a provision in a contract or a court order whic ... ng property or entering a judgment. civil liberties :: n. rights or freedoms given to the people by the F ... nment. See also: civil civil rights professional negligence :: n. See also: malpractice ... n. See also: malpractice wrongful death :: n. the death of a human being as the result of a w ... ual beneficiaries (family members). wrongful termination :: n. a right of an employee to sue his/her employer ... ing an employee's grounds for suit. writ :: n. a written order of a judge requiring specific a ... ntity to whom the writ is directed. World Court :: n. the Court of International Justice, founded by ... rd and to be bound by the decision. Workmen's Compensation :: n. a former name for worker's compensation before ... isex title of the acts was adopted. act :: 1) n. in general, any action by a person. 2) n. a ... ct on your motion for a new trial." zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |