Dictionary of Law
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Founded: 659
Customs Court :: n. a federal court established (1926) to hear appe ... Court of Customs and Patent Appeals
trademark :: n. a distinctive design, picture, emblem, logo or ... ing trademark. See also: trade name
court :: n. 1) the judge, as in "The court rules in favor o ... cost and wait of full court trials.
court calendar :: n. the list of matters to be heard or set for tria ... ring by a court. See also: calendar
rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule
municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court
moot court :: n. law school exercise in which students argue bot ... fferent law schools. See also: moot
trial court :: n. the court which holds the original trial, as di ... a court of appeals. See also: trial
court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court
appellate court :: n. a court of appeals which hears appeals from low ... court of appeals. See also: appeal
day in court :: n. popular term for everyone's opportunity to brin ... rt to protest his speeding ticket."
court-martial :: 1) n. a military court for trying offenses in viol ... the U.S. Court of Military Appeals.
court of law :: n. any tribunal within a judicial system. Under En ... aw. See also: chancery court equity
court of equity :: n. originally in English common law and in several ... also: chancery court of law equity
bankruptcy court :: n. the specialized federal court in which bankrupt ... : bankruptcy bankruptcy proceedings
Tax Court :: n. a federal agency with courts in major cities wh ... Appeals. See also: court income tax
circuit courts :: n. a movable court in which the judge holds court ... alled the Circuit Courts of Appeal.
open court :: n. the conduct of judicial proceedings (trials, he ... which are usually held in chambers.
out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement
paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader
small claims court :: n. a division of most municipal, city or other low ... od example of a small claims court.
officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge
police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing
surrogate court :: n. a court in a few states (including New York) wi ... er probates, estates and adoptions.
World Court :: n. the Court of International Justice, founded by ... rd and to be bound by the decision.
Supreme Court :: n. 1) the highest court in the United States, whic ... rt in other states. See also: court
federal courts :: n. the court system which handles civil and crimin ... rans' appeals. See also: bankruptcy
Superior Court :: n. the name used in 16 states for the basic county ... county trial court. See also: court
contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction
court costs :: n. fees for expenses that the courts pass on to at ... ee also: cost bill prevailing party
patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending
juvenile court :: n. a special court or department of a trial court ... See also: court juvenile delinquent
kangaroo court :: n. 1) a mock court set up without legal basis, suc ... See also: star chamber proceedings
lower court :: n. 1) any court of lesser rank, such as municipal ... ruled Defendant had no basis for:."
district court :: n. 1) in the federal court system, a trial court f ... urt in some states. See also: court
patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent
patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent
constitution :: n. the fundamental, underlying document which esta ... ts common law constitutional rights
court docket :: n. See also: docket ... n. See also: docket
court trial :: ("non-jury trial"): a trial with a judge but no ju ... : a trial with a judge but no jury.
infringement :: n. 1) a trespassing or illegal entering. 2) in the ... patent plagiarism royalty trademark
patent ambiguity :: n. an obvious inconsistency in the language of a w ... the language of a written document.
patent defect :: n. an obvious flaw in a product or a document (suc ... he property description in a deed).
trade secret :: n. a process, method, plan, formula or other infor ... e invention. See also: patent trade
attorney :: n. 1) an agent or someone authorized to act for an ... ialize. See also: court reciprocity
race to the courthouse :: n. slang for the rule that the first deed, deed of ... e also: deed judgment lien mortgage
limited jurisdiction :: n. courts' authority over certain types of cases s ... value. See also: court jurisdiction
Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark
pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene
political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues.
recess :: n. a break in a trial or other court proceedings o ... t," which winds up the proceedings.
perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien
peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate
post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail.
prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment
receivership :: n. the process of appointment by a court of a rece ... n receivership." See also: receiver
precedent :: 1) n. a prior reported opinion of an appeals court ... to perform. See also: stare decisis
pendent jurisdiction :: n. in federal procedure, the policy that allows a ... n. (It also may be spelled: pendant
pendente lite :: (pen-den-tay lee-tay) adj. Latin for awaiting the ... enforced until the lawsuit is over.
per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author.
pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead
plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing
referee :: n. a person to whom a judge refers a case to take ... on such findings. See also: master
rebuttable presumption :: n. since a presumption is an assumption of fact ac ... a redundancy. See also: presumption
permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction
picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety.
personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons
petition :: 1) n. a formal written request to a court for an o ... dent. See also: divorce motion writ
perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood.
plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision.
perform :: v. 1) to fulfill one's obligations under a contrac ... court order. See also: performance
plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner
record :: 1) v. (ree-cored) to put a document into the offic ... eeding race to the courthouse trial
reformation :: n. the correction or change of an existing documen ... neral partner sues for reformation.
perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury
permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards.
prerogative writ :: n. an historic generic term for any writ (court or ... ls or another court. See also: writ
process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons
quasi-judicial :: adj., adv. referring to the actions of an agency, ... -judicial. See also: judicial quasi
prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate
procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made.
probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege
pro tem :: 1) adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporari ... as "Sam Collins is Pro Tem today."
probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will
promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel
proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party
public administrator :: n. a county official with the responsibility to ha ... ian is available. See also: probate
public defender :: n. an elected or appointed public official (usuall ... to convicted indigents for appeals.
provisional remedy :: n. a generic term for any temporary order of a cou ... ing. See also: temporary injunction
quasi-criminal :: adj. a reference to a court's right to punish for ... defendant. See also: criminal quasi
property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property
protective custody :: n. the act of law enforcement officials in placing ... ical harm or death if they testify.
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.
presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note
presiding judge :: n. 1) in both state and federal appeals court, the ... and chairs meetings of the judges.
presumption :: n. a rule of law which permits a court to assume a ... resumption at all, but a certainty.
public record :: n. any information, minutes, files, accounts or ot ... l judgment are both public records.
preliminary injunction :: n. a court order made in the early stages of a law ... ent injunction temporary injunction
preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy
preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information
quiet title action :: n. a lawsuit to establish a party's title to real ... opposition. See also: notice title
prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone).
peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order
Queen's Bench :: n. 1) the highest court in Great Britain during th ... include close to 50 percent women.
privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights.
question of fact :: n. in a lawsuit or criminal prosecution, an issue ... also: finding judge question of law
priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse").
privileged communication :: n. statements and conversations made under circums ... See also: attorney-client privilege
preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other.
on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent
memorandum :: n. 1) a brief writing, note, summary or outline. 2 ... r "The decision below is affirmed."
military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate
minutes :: n. 1) the written record of meetings, particularly ... court reporter if recorded at all.
meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion.
mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration
material witness :: n. a person who apparently has information about t ... e. See also: material trial witness
matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped.
McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning
Miranda warning :: n. the requirement, also called the Miranda rule, ... me such a suspect? See also: rights
misdemeanor :: n. a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or coun ... tion are felonies. See also: felony
moratorium :: n. 1) any suspension of activity, particularly vol ... to normal activities and earnings.
motion :: n. a formal request made to a judge for an order o ... g, an oral motion may be permitted.
motion for a new trial :: n. a request made by the loser for the case to be ... hstanding the verdict motion N.O.V.
moot point :: n. 1) a legal question which no court has decided, ... f academic interest. See also: moot
moot :: adj. 1) unsettled, open to argument or debatable, ... st. See also: moot court moot point
misjoinder :: n. the inclusion of parties (plaintiffs or defenda ... ent transactions. See also: joinder
mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial
modification :: n. a change in an existing court order or judgment ... terms of child support and custody.
material :: adj. relevant and significant. In a lawsuit, "mate ... contract is not a material breach.
martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law
litigation :: n. any lawsuit or other resort to the courts to de ... termine a legal question or matter.
litigious :: adj. referring to a person who constantly brings o ... e called "professional plaintiffs."
long cause :: n. a lawsuit in which it is estimated that a trial ... dar call court calendar short cause
lis pendens :: (lease pen-dense) n. Latin for "a suit pending," a ... ob can be penalized by court order.
limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations
levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution
liability :: n. one of the most significant words in the field ... bility joint tortfeasors negligence
libel :: 1) n. to publish in print (including pictures), wr ... libel per se public figure slander
long-arm statute :: n. law which gives a local state court jurisdictio ... rt jurisdiction over the defendant.
magistrate :: n. 1) a generic term for any judge of a court, or ... ce of the peace preliminary hearing
maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty
marketable title :: n. the title to real property which has no encumbr ... e. See also: contract real property
marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors.
mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder
mandate :: n. 1) any mandatory order or requirement under sta ... See also: mandamus writ of mandate
malicious prosecution :: n. filing a lawsuit with the intention of creating ... vor of the victim. See also: malice
mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate
motion for a summary judgment :: n. a written request for a judgment in the moving ... strict procedures. See also: motion
motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike
on file :: prep. having been formally filed with the clerk of ... eading is "on file." See also: file
on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred.
on the stand :: prep. testifying during a trial, in which the witn ... troom and behind a knee-high panel.
rehearing :: n. conducting a hearing again based on the motion ... the judge or agency was just wrong.
omission :: n. 1) failure to perform an act agreed to, where t ... of contract negligence reformation
obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime.
off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar
officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule
operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18.
opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified.
palimony :: n. a substitute for alimony in cases in which the ... the relationship. See also: alimony
parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward
partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property.
overrule :: v. 1) to reject an attorney's objection to a quest ... : appellate court objection sustain
original jurisdiction :: n. the authority of a court to hold a trial, as di ... l judgments. See also: jurisdiction
order :: 1) n. every direction or mandate of a judge or a c ... defendant. See also: judge judgment
order to show cause :: n. a judge's written mandate that a party appear i ... vernmental agency. See also: O.S.C.
obscene :: adj., adv. a highly subjective reference to materi ... en I see it." See also: pornography
objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain
no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain
no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence
nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi.
nisi prius :: : (nee-see pree-us) adj. Latin for "unless first," ... : original jurisdiction trial court
necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party
movant :: n. the party in a lawsuit or other legal proceedin ... or judgment). See also: motion move
move :: v. to make a motion in court applying for a court ... r judgment. See also: motion movant
N.O.V. :: adj. shorthand acronym of Latin for non obstante v ... notwithstanding the verdict verdic
nominal party :: n. a defendant or a plaintiff included in a lawsui ... ed. See also: necessary party party
not guilty :: n. 1) plea of a person who claims not to have comm ... t guilty by reason of insanity plea
nunc pro tunc :: (nuhnk proh tuhnk) adj. Latin for "now for then," ... r actuality of a bigamous marriage.
oath :: n. 1) a swearing to tell the truth, the whole trut ... ountry. See also: affidavit perjury
object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection
nullity :: n. something which may be treated as nothing, as i ... of a marriage by a court judgment.
notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice
not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity
notary public :: n. a person authorized by the state in which the p ... he state which appoints the notary.
party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent
resulting trust :: n. a trust implied by law (as determined by a cour ... See also: constructive trust trust
tenancy in common :: n. title to property (usually real property, but i ... on. See also: joint tenancy tenancy
term :: n. 1) in contracts or leases, a period of time, su ... nancy" is one term for "occupancy."
testify :: v. to give oral evidence under oath in answer to q ... deposition evidence testimony trial
temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction
tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges.
swear :: v. 1) to declare under oath that one will tell the ... ee also: notary public oath perjury
tainted evidence :: n. in a criminal trial, information which has been ... e search and seizure search warrant
taking the Fifth :: n. the refusal to testify on the ground that the t ... ifth." See also: self-incrimination
testimony :: n. oral evidence given under oath by a witness in ... tion evidence testify trial witness
Thirty-day notice :: n. a notice by a landlord to a tenant on a month-t ... e also: landlord and tenant service
tribunal :: n. any court, judicial body or board which has qua ... zoning regulations. See also: court
true bill :: n. the written decision of a Grand Jury (signed by ... to the court. See also: indictment
trust :: n. an entity created to hold assets for the benefi ... testamentary trust trustee trustor
trial de novo :: n. a form of appeal in which the appeals court hol ... from small claims court judgments.
trespass :: n. entering another person's property without perm ... for an illegal purpose is a crime.
three-day notice :: n. a notice to pay delinquent rent or quit (leave ... nd tenant service unlawful detainer
timely :: adj. within the time required by statute, court ru ... ed on the 61st day is not "timely."
transcript :: n. the written record of all proceedings, includin ... unless transcription is requested.
surrebutal :: n. in written or oral legal argument, the response ... h until the judge stops the debate.
supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue.
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.
subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury
sua sponte :: : (sooh-uh spahn-tay) adj. Latin for "of one's own ... ot have jurisdiction over the case.
stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay
stipulation :: n. an agreement, usually on a procedural matter, b ... g, signed and filed with the court.
strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store.
substantive law :: n. law which establishes principles and creates an ... are conducted. See also: procedure
substitute in :: v. to take over a case from another lawyer, which ... See also: substitution of attorney
supersedeas :: (sooh-purr-said-ee-uhs) Latin for "you shall desis ... . See also: appeal court of appeals
suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence
supra :: (sooh-prah) Latin for "above," in legal briefs and ... d as Guinn v. United States, supra.
summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ
summary judgment :: n. a court order ruling that no factual issues rem ... tion summary adjudication of issues
suit :: n. generic term for any filing of a complaint (or ... "suit in equity." See also: lawsuit
summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment
trustee in bankruptcy :: n. a person appointed by a bankruptcy court to sup ... f the debtors. See also: bankruptcy
unclean hands :: n. a legal doctrine which is a defense to a compla ... ough. See also: affirmative defense
abandoned property :: n. property left behind (often by a tenant) intent ... -use. See also: abandon abandonment
abandonment :: n. the act of intentionally and permanently giving ... : abandon abandoned property patent
ambiguity :: n. when language has more than one meaning. If the ... most favorable to the other party.
zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... овской гарантии . youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent
writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate
wrongful termination :: n. a right of an employee to sue his/her employer ... ing an employee's grounds for suit.
your honor :: n. the proper way to address a judge in court. ... er way to address a judge in court.
color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title."
license :: 1) n. governmental permission to perform a particu ... eement. See also: licensee licensor
trade :: 1) n. a business or occupation for profit, particu ... rade fixture trade secret trademark
trade name :: n. a name of a business or one of its products whi ... t is different. See also: trademark
unfair competition :: n. wrongful and/or fraudulent business methods to ... ctices tend to harm one's business.
copyright :: 1) n. the exclusive right of the author or creator ... plagiarism public domain trademark
confusingly similar :: adj. in the law of trademarks, when a trademark, l ... a of the other. See also: trademark
royalty :: n. a percentage of gross or net profit or a fixed ... also: copyright infringement patent
tangible property :: n. physical articles (things) as distinguished fro ... operty personal property personalty
writ of execution :: n. a court order to a sheriff to enforce a judgmen ... ing plaintiff). See also: execution
writ of coram nobis :: : (writ of core-uhm noh-bis) n. from Latin for "in ... ment if known at the time of trial.
unreasonable search and seizure :: n. search of an individual or his/her premises (in ... e probable cause search and seizure
usury :: n. a rate of interest on a debt which is exorbitan ... al Reserve Bank. See also: usurious
venue :: n. 1) the proper or most convenient location for t ... ion. See also: forum non conveniens
unlawful detainer :: n. 1) keeping possession of real property without ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice
unjust enrichment :: n. a benefit by chance, mistake or another's misfo ... perty. See also: constructive trust
unconscionable :: adj. referring to a contract or bargain which is s ... ee also: adhesion contract contract
unconstitutional :: adj. referring to a statute, governmental conduct, ... ee also: constitution Supreme Court
undue influence :: n. the amount of pressure which one uses to force ... ounder. See also: will will contest
void :: adj. referring to a statute, contract, ruling or a ... udgment is void. See also: voidable
voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge
will :: n. a written document which leaves the estate of t ... will and testament probate testator
wiretap :: n. using an electronic device to listen in on tele ... invasion of privacy probable cause
writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment
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
voluntary bankruptcy :: n. the filing for bankruptcy by a debtor who belie ... kruptcy court. See also: bankruptcy
waiver :: n. the intentional and voluntary giving up of some ... ssed on the record. See also: waive
stay away order :: n. a court order that a person may not come near a ... also: peace bond restraining order
stay :: n. a court-ordered short-term delay in judicial pr ... r case. See also: stay of execution
revival :: n. 1) requesting a court to reinstate the force of ... e of limitations (the time to sue).
right :: 1) n. an entitlement to something, whether to conc ... e also: civil rights marital rights
rights :: n. 1) plural of right, which is the collection of ... evidence. See also: Miranda warning
review :: n. the judicial consideration of a lower court jud ... ate court reversal reversible error
reversible error :: n. a legal mistake at the trial court level which ... nt at the trial. See also: reversal
retroactive :: adj. referring to a court's decision or a statute ... ospective." See also: ex post facto
revenue ruling :: n. a published opinion of the Internal Revenue Ser ... evenue ruling. See also: income tax
reversal :: n. the decision of a court of appeal ruling that t ... e of damages is ordered to dismiss.
ripe :: adj. in constitutional law, referring to a law cas ... or more issues raised by the case.
roadside test :: n. a preliminary test law enforcement officers use ... g while intoxicated Miranda warning
satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment
sealed verdict :: n. the decision of a jury when there is a delay in ... reconvenes. See also: jury verdict
sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny.
sanction :: n. 1) a financial penalty imposed by a judge on a ... ction." See also: contempt of court
ruling :: n. court decision on a case or any legal question. ... on on a case or any legal question.
rogatory letters :: n. a written request by a judge to a judge in anot ... also: deposition testimony witness
rule :: 1) v. to decide a legal question, by a court, as i ... ee also: regulations rules of court
retrial :: n. a new trial granted upon the motion of the losi ... al or reversed by an appeals court.
letters testamentary :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... te. See also: administrator probate
removal :: n. 1) the change of a legal case from one court to ... a crime or successful impeachment.
reorganization :: n. the implementation of a business plan to restru ... also: bankruptcy corporation merger
reply brief :: n. the written legal argument of the respondent (t ... ee also: appeal appellee respondent
remittitur :: n. 1) a judge's order reducing a judgment awarded ... party on appeal). See also: remand
remedy :: n. the means to achieve justice in any matter in w ... gment provisional remedy settlement
release on one's own recognizance :: v. for a judge to allow a criminal defendant pre-t ... ourtroom slang. See also: bail O.R.
relief :: n. generic term for all types of benefits which an ... r possibilities. See also: judgment
remand :: v. to send back. An appeals court may remand a cas ... ee also: appeal preliminary hearing
reports :: n. the published decisions of appeals courts in al ... ilable in almost all law libraries.
represent :: v. 1) to act as the agent for another. 2) to act a ... parties." See also: representation
respondent :: n. 1) the party who is required to answer a petiti ... "appellant") in the appeals court.
restraining order :: n. a temporary order of a court to keep conditions ... so: injunction permanent injunction
restrictive covenant :: n. 1) an agreement included in a deed to real prop ... o: covenant that runs with the land
res judicata :: : (rayz judy-cot-ah) n. Latin for "the thing has b ... djudicata. See also: res adjudicata
res gestae :: (rayz jest-tie) n. from Latin for "things done," i ... n those circumstances are reliable.
representation :: n. 1) the act of being another's agent. 2) acting ... ns or in court. See also: represent
res adjudicata :: n. a thing (legal matter) already determined by a ... es judicata. See also: res judicata
search and seizure :: n. examination of a person's premises (residence, ... robable cause search search warrant
search warrant :: n. a written order by a judge which permits a law ... ble cause search search and seizure
solicitor :: n. an English attorney who may perform all legal s ... s or barristers. See also: attorney
Solicitor General :: n. the chief trial attorney in the federal Departm ... Attorney General in the Department.
special administrator :: n. a person appointed by the court in a probate pr ... or administrator. See also: probate
show cause order :: n. an order of the court, also called an order to ... hild. See also: order to show cause
shortening time :: n. an order of the court in response to the motion ... e notice is served within 24 hours.
sheriff's sale :: n. an auction sale of property held by the sheriff ... so: execution forced sale levy writ
shield laws :: n. statutes enacted in some states which declare t ... See also: privileged communication
short cause :: n. a lawsuit which is estimated by the parties (us ... l be reset later as a "long cause."
special appearance :: n. the representation by an attorney of a person i ... anged. See also: general appearance
special master :: n. a person appointed by the court to carry out an ... ting to the judge. See also: master
status conference :: n. a pre-trial meeting of attorneys before a judge ... g a trial date. See also: discovery
statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll
statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party.
stare decisis :: : (stah-ree duh-sigh-sis) n. Latin for "to stand b ... pellate court lower court precedent
star chamber proceedings :: n. any judicial or quasi-judicial action, trial or ... ate 1960s. See also: kangaroo court
spousal support :: n. payment for support of an ex-spouse (or a spous ... but two. See also: alimony divorce
standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction
sheriff :: n. the top law enforcement officer for a county, u ... ." See also: bailiff sheriff's sale
Shepardize :: n. a method of locating reports of appeals decisio ... m prior case law. See also: reports
sequester :: v. to keep separate or apart. In so-called "high-p ... of others. See also: sequestration
service :: n. 1) paid work by another person, either by contr ... ersonal services service of process
service by FAX :: n. delivery of legal documents required by statute ... ee also: service service of process
separation agreement :: n. an agreement between two married people who hav ... divorce legal separation separation
senior lien :: n. the first security interest (lien or claim) pla ... rtgage race to the courthouse UCC-1
secret rebate :: n. a kickback of money by a business to a "preferr ... h a secret rebate. See also: rebate
seizure :: n. the taking by law enforcement officers of poten ... e search and seizure search warrant
self-incrimination :: n. making statements or producing evidence which t ... nda warning rights taking the Fifth
service by mail :: n. mailing legal pleadings to opposing attorneys o ... attorney by mail. See also: service
service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service
settlement :: n. the resolution of a lawsuit (or of a legal disp ... ult in settlement. See also: settle
severance :: n. 1) a separating by court order, such as separat ... le a potential claim for discharge.
sharp practice :: n. actions by a lawyer using misleading statements ... e bar association or by the courts.
settle :: v. to resolve a lawsuit without a final court judg ... rior to trial. See also: settlement
setting :: n. the action of a court, clerk or commissioner in ... g a trial or hearing. See also: set
session :: n. 1) a meeting (or "sitting") of a court for a pa ... pring Term" or the "October Term").
set aside :: v. to annul or negate a court order or judgment by ... "set aside" the original dismissal.
rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies").
kidnapping :: (also spelled kidnaping) n. the taking of a person ... but now applies to adults as well.
collusive action :: n. a lawsuit brought by parties pretending to be a ... ion collusion controversy precedent
comity :: n. when one court defers to the jurisdiction of an ... of cases to which comity may apply.
commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition
cohabitation :: n. living together in the same residence, generall ... xual relationships as cohabitation.
codicil :: n. a written amendment to a person's will, which m ... the writer. See also: probate will
clean hands doctrine :: n. a rule of law that a person coming to court wit ... ices. See also: affirmative defense
clerk :: n. 1) an official or employee who handles the busi ... stocking shelves, or counter sales.
Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states.
common law :: n. the traditional unwritten law of England, based ... plied without reference to statute.
community property :: n. property and profits received by a husband and ... and distribution separate property
conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment
conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment
condemn :: v. 1) for a public agency to determine that a buil ... condemnation action eminent domain
conclusion :: n. 1) in general, the end. 2) in a trial, when all ... onclusion of fact conclusion of law
compromise verdict :: n. a decision made by a jury in which the jurors s ... ning the verdict. See also: verdict
commutation :: n. the act of reducing a criminal sentence resulti ... See also: executive clemency pardon
competent :: adj. 1) in general, able to act in the circumstanc ... all bases. See also: evidence will
complaint :: n. the first document filed with the court (actual ... g prayer service of process summons
class action :: n. a lawsuit filed by one or more people on behalf ... ees usually require court approval.
claim against an estate :: n. upon the death of a person and beginning of pro ... ade to the heirs. See also: probate
certiorari :: n. (sersh-oh-rare-ee) a writ (order) of a higher c ... cedents (previously decided cases).
chambers :: n. the private office of a judge, usually close to ... s." See also: in camera in chambers
chancellor :: n. from the old English legal system, a chancellor ... n the same courts. See also: equity
cease and desist order :: n. an order of a court or government agency to a p ... ing which would damage the ecology.
casualty :: n. 1) an accident which could not have been forese ... definition. See also: casualty loss
case :: n. short for a cause of action, lawsuit, or the ri ... ny, the court stated the rule as:."
case law :: n. reported decisions of appeals courts and other ... es. See also: case system precedent
case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline.
chancery :: n. a court that can order acts performed. Today ch ... ts in most states. See also: equity
change of circumstances :: n. the principal reason for a court modifying (ame ... ild support divorce spousal support
civil calendar :: n. the list of lawsuits (cases) that are approachi ... y sent to trial. See also: calendar
civil liability :: n. potential responsibility for payment of damages ... ans open to punishment for a crime.
civil rights :: n. those rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, ... ill of Rights civil civil liberties
cite :: v. 1) to make reference to a decision in another c ... police officer). See also: citation
citation :: n. 1) a notice to appear in court due to the proba ... se is not in point." See also: cite
Chief Justice :: n. the presiding judge of any State Supreme Court ... nks of existing Associate Justices.
child custody :: n. a court's determination of which parent, relati ... pport custody divorce joint custody
child support :: n. court-ordered funds to be paid by one parent to ... ild custody divorce spousal support
condemnation :: n. the legal process by which a governmental body ... eminent domain inverse condemnation
condemnation action :: n. a lawsuit brought by a public agency to acquire ... e also: condemnation eminent domain
cross-examination :: n. the opportunity for the attorney (or an unrepre ... examination testimony trial witness
cruel and unusual punishment :: n. governmental penalties against convicted crimin ... opted. See also: capital punishment
custody :: n. 1) holding property under one's control. 2) law ... inor child. See also: child custody
cross-complaint :: n. after a complaint has been filed against a defe ... g prayer service of process summons
criminal calendar :: n. the list of criminal cases to be called in cour ... e plea preliminary hearing sentence
costs :: n. shorthand for court costs. See also: court cost ... court costs. See also: court costs
counsel :: 1) n. a lawyer, attorney, attorney-at-law, counsel ... self is a crime. See also: attorney
creditor's claim :: n. a claim required to be filed in writing, in a p ... e also: claim in bankruptcy probate
cy pres doctrine :: n. (see-pray doctrine) from French, meaning "as cl ... ey among several S.P.C.A. chapters.
de facto :: adj. Latin for "in fact." Often used in place of " ... ave not been met. See also: de jure
declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration
declaratory judgment :: n. a judgment of a court which determines the righ ... ys it. See also: declaratory relief
decree :: n. in general, synonymous with judgment. However, ... n's estate, etc. See also: judgment
decision :: n. judgment, decree or determination of findings o ... (court). See also: decree judgment
decide :: v. for a judge, arbitrator, court of appeals or ot ... rding to the law as he/she sees it.
de facto corporation :: n. a company which operates as if it were a corpor ... also: de facto de jure ultra vires
de novo :: adj. Latin for "anew," which means starting over, ... n, de novo. See also: trial de novo
deadly weapon :: n. any weapon which can kill. This includes not on ... See also: assault dangerous weapon
cost bill :: n. a list of claimed court costs submitted by the ... also: court costs prevailing party
corporate opportunity :: n. a business opportunity which becomes known to a ... ative action fiduciary relationship
consent decree :: n. an order of a judge based upon an agreement, al ... he same. See also: consent judgment
conservatee :: n. a person whom a court has determined because of ... and the like. See also: conservator
conservator :: n. a guardian and protector appointed by a judge t ... ies. See also: conservatee guardian
conscientious objector :: n. a person who refuses to serve in the military d ... ometimes call them "draft dodgers."
conflict of law :: n. a situation in which both state and federal law ... y arose. See also: forum preemption
confess :: v. in criminal law, to voluntarily state that one ... Miranda warning self-incrimination
confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant.
confidential communication :: n. certain written communications which can be kep ... privilege privileged communication
constable :: n. a law officer for a particular area such as a r ... ice of the Peace. See also: sheriff
construction :: n. the act of a lawyer or court in interpreting an ... tion. See also: strict construction
contributory negligence :: n. a doctrine of common law that if a person was i ... : comparative negligence negligence
controversy :: n. 1) disagreement, argument or quarrel. 2) a disp ... pinions. See also: advisory opinion
conveyance :: n. a generic term for any written document which t ... r Recorder of Deeds. See also: deed
contract :: 1) n. an agreement with specific terms between two ... n oral contract unilateral contract
continuance :: n. a postponement of a date of a trial, hearing or ... continuances to discourage delays.
constructive fraud :: n. when the circumstances show that someone's acti ... been proven. See also: constructive
constructive notice :: n. a fiction that a person got notice even though ... personally. See also: constructive
constructive trust :: n. when a person has title to property and/or take ... tence. See also: constructive trust
care :: n. in law, to be attentive, prudent and vigilant. ... she is involved. See also: careless
caption :: n. the first section of any written legal pleading ... to the exact format of the caption.
adverse party :: n. the opposite side in a lawsuit. Sometimes when ... the court rules the will was legal.
advisory opinion :: n. an opinion stated by a judge or a court upon th ... o: actual controversy friendly suit
affirm :: v. what an appeals court does if it agrees with an ... confirms a lower court's decision.
adoption :: n. the taking of a child into one's family, creati ... the child are met. See also: adopt
admit :: v. 1) to state something is true in answering a co ... tted." See also: admission evidence
admission against interest :: n. an admission of the truth of a fact by any pers ... earsay. See also: admission hearsay
admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights
admission to bail :: n. an order of a court in a criminal case allowing ... lient. See also: bail bail bondsman
agreed statement :: n. occasionally the two parties on opposite sides ... gument and not of the actual facts.
alimony :: n. support paid by one ex-spouse to the other as o ... ild support divorce spousal support
ancillary administration :: n. administration of an estate's assets in another ... or "subordinate." See also: probate
ancillary jurisdiction :: n. a term used in federal courts when the court de ... ine. See also: pendent jurisdiction
answer :: n. in law, a written pleading filed by a defendant ... emurrer general denial verification
amicus curiae :: n. Latin for "friend of the court," a party or an ... party's presentation to the court.
American Civil Liberties Union :: n. a membership organization founded in 1920 to de ... rk, NY 10036; tel.: (212) 944-9800.
amend :: v. to alter or change by adding, subtracting, or s ... mended pleading statute stipulation
amended complaint :: n. what results when the party suing (plaintiff or ... cause of action complaint demurrer
amended pleading :: n. a changed written pleading in a lawsuit, includ ... o: amend amended complaint demurrer
admissible evidence :: n. evidence which the trial judge finds is useful ... olving violence. See also: evidence
admiralty :: n. concerning activities which occur at sea, inclu ... "proctors." See also: maritime law
abscond :: v. 1) traditionally to leave a jurisdiction (where ... as in "he absconded with the loot."
abstention doctrine :: n. when the Supreme Court refuses to exercise its ... being appealed from a state court.
abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien
abortion :: n. the termination of pregnancy by various means, ... ed abortion continue in the future.
abeyance :: 1) n. when the owner- ship of property has not bee ... 2) legal jargon for "undetermined."
law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law
mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code
ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages.
abuse of discretion :: n. a polite way of saying a trial judge has made s ... partner's realistic ability to pay.
act :: 1) n. in general, any action by a person. 2) n. a ... ct on your motion for a new trial."
administer :: v. 1) to conduct the duties of a job or position. ... lso: administrator executor probate
administrative law :: n. the procedures created by administrative agenci ... judge Administrative Procedure Act
administrator :: n. the person appointed by the court to handle the ... e also: administer executor probate
adhesion contract :: n.(contract of adhesion) a contract (often a signe ... ourceful lawyer. See also: contract
adequate remedy :: n. a remedy (money or performance) awarded by a co ... es it, giving cause for his arrest.
actionable :: adj. when enough facts or circumstances exist to m ... ction lawsuit malicious prosecution
actual controversy :: n. a true legal dispute which leads to a genuine l ... al outcome. See also: friendly suit
ad litem :: adj. legal Latin meaning "for the purposes of the ... of age. See also: guardian ad litem
appeal :: 1) v. to ask a higher court to reverse the decisio ... ng, as in "he has filed an appeal."
appear :: v. for a party or an attorney to show up in court. ... w up in court. See also: appearance
bar :: 1) n. collectively all attorneys, as "the bar," wh ... a room, building, or real property.
bar association :: n. an organization of lawyers. There are two types ... oluntary organization of attorneys.
bar examination :: n. the examination given in each state by either t ... n that district. See also: attorney
bankruptcy proceedings :: n. the bankruptcy procedure is: a) filing a petiti ... ankruptcy court claim in bankruptcy
bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy
bail bondsman :: n. a professional agent for an insurance company w ... t to jail. See also: bail bail bond
bailiff :: n. 1) a court official, usually a deputy sheriff, ... isdictional territory of a bailiff.
bank :: n. 1) an officially chartered institution empowere ... erred to as "in bank" or "en banc."
barrister :: n. in the United States a fancy name for a lawyer ... ome barristers. See also: solicitor
bench :: n. 1) general term for all judges, as in "the benc ... h court judge sidebar witness stand
brief :: 1) n. a written legal argument, usually in a forma ... another person. See also: precedent
calendar :: 1) n. the list of cases to be called for trial bef ... clerk of the court calendars cases.
capital punishment :: n. execution (death) for a capital offense. The U. ... or death. See also: capital offense
breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance
bond :: n. 1) written evidence of debt issued by a company ... good up to the amount of the bond.
bench warrant :: n. a warrant issued by a judge, often to command s ... appear in court. See also: warrant
benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault.
bifurcate :: v. the order or ruling of a judge that one issue i ... is necessary. See also: bifurcation
bail bond :: n. a bond provided by an insurance company through ... urned. See also: bail bail bondsman
bail :: 1) n. the money or bond put up to secure the relea ... bond bail bondsman own recognizance
arbitrator :: n. one who conducts an arbitration, and serves as ... he other two. See also: arbitration
arguendo :: prep. Latin meaning "for the sake of argument," us ... rs most commonly in appeals briefs.
arraign :: v. to bring a criminal defendant before the court, ... d. See also: appearance arraignment
arbitration :: n. a mini-trial, which may be for a lawsuit ready ... tance of the arbitrator's decision.
arbiter :: n. in some jurisdictions the name for a referee ap ... efore it is binding on the parties.
appearance :: n. the act of a party or an attorney showing up in ... neral appearance special appearance
appellant :: n. the party who appeals a trial court decision he ... e/she/it has lost. See also: appeal
appellee :: n. in some jurisdictions the name used for the par ... ndent." See also: appeal respondent
arrest :: v. 1) to take or hold a suspected criminal with le ... anda warning probable cause warrant
Associate Justice :: n. a member of the U.S. Supreme Court appointed by ... acquitted.) See also: Supreme Court
attorney's fee :: n. the payment for legal services. It can take sev ... ees in the particular type of case.
attorney's work product :: n. written materials, charts, notes of conversatio ... ivileged communication work product
authorities :: n. 1) previous decisions by courts of appeal which ... also: brief cite decision precedent
attorney's advertising :: n. the commercials which appear on television or c ... es to handle high volume practices.
attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed.
attached :: adj. 1) referring to two buildings which are conne ... o: attachment fixture trade fixture
attachment :: n. the seizing of money or property prior to getti ... bond. See also: writ of attachment
attempt :: v. and n. to actually try to commit a crime and ha ... felt he tried but did not succeed.
defamation :: n. the act of making untrue statements about anoth ... comment libel public figure slander
default judgment :: n. if a defendant in a lawsuit fails to respond to ... See also: complaint default summons
insolvency :: n. 1) the condition of having more debts (liabilit ... the property. See also: bankruptcy
inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial
insufficient evidence :: n. a finding (decision) by a trial judge or an app ... l court. See also: evidence finding
insanity :: n. mental illness of such a severe nature that a p ... M'Naughten rule temporary insanity
innocent :: adj. without guilt (not guilty). Usually the plea ... also: arraignment plea plea bargain
injunction :: n. a writ (order) issued by a court ordering someo ... t. See also: injunctive relief writ
injunctive relief :: n. a court-ordered act or prohibition against an a ... t injunction restraining order writ
injury :: n. any harm done to a person by the acts or omissi ... nction injunctive relief negligence
interest :: n. 1) any and all, partial or total right to prope ... nal property real property standing
interim order :: n. a temporary order of the court pending a hearin ... erlocutory decree restraining order
intervene :: v. to obtain the court's permission to enter into ... ntion joinder multiplicity of suits
intestacy :: n. the condition of having died without a valid wi ... e. See also: intestate probate will
invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy
interrogatories :: n. a set of written questions to a party to a laws ... ing. See also: deposition discovery
interpleader :: n. the procedure when two parties are involved in ... e claimants fight over it in court.
interlocutory :: adj. provisional and not intended to be final. Thi ... ary. See also: interlocutory decree
interlocutory decree :: n. a court judgment which is temporary and not int ... ppeared to waste the parties' time.
international law :: n. treaties between countries; multi-lateral agree ... all nations. See also: World Court
information :: n. an accusation or criminal charge brought by the ... Jury indictment preliminary hearing
indispensable party :: n. a person or entity which must be included in a ... tion to join Olivia as a defendant.
immediately :: adv. 1) at once. 2) in orders of the court or in c ... oon as can be done" without excuse.
impeach :: v. 1) to discredit the testimony of a witness by p ... ve been found guilty by the Senate.
in camera :: adj. or adv. phrase. Latin for "in chambers." This ... he courtroom. See also: in chambers
holding :: 1) n. any ruling or decision of a court. 2) n. any ... 4) v. keeping in one's possession.
held :: v. decided or ruled, as "the court held that the c ... See also: decision judgment ruling
headnote :: n. the summary of the key legal points determined ... not the court's. See also: reports
hearing :: n. any proceeding before a judge or other magistra ... e hearing preliminary hearing trial
hearsay rule :: n. the basic rule that testimony or documents whic ... interest dying declaration hearsay
in personam :: adj. (in purr-soh-nam) from Latin for "directed to ... here. See also: in rem jurisdiction
in propria persona :: adj. from Latin "for one's self," acting on one's ... client and an ass for an attorney."
incompetent evidence :: n. testimony, documents or things which one side a ... ns. See also: incompetent objection
indictment :: n. a charge of a felony (serious crime) voted by a ... ictable offense preliminary hearing
indigent :: 1) n. a person so poor and needy that he/she canno ... person who is very poor and needy.
incompetent :: adj. 1) referring to a person who is not able to m ... n incompetency incompetent evidence
incompetency :: n. the condition of lacking the ability to handle ... and/or represented by an attorney.
in rem :: adj. from Latin "against or about a thing," referr ... cular person. See also: in personam
in terrorem clause :: (in tehr-roar-em)n. from Latin for "in fear," a pr ... e gift. See also: will will contest
incapacity :: adj. 1) not being able to perform any gainful empl ... of the will. See also: incompetent
irrelevant :: adj. not important, pertinent, or germane to the m ... ce immaterial incompetent objection
irreparable damage or injury :: n. the type of harm which no monetary compensation ... also: equity injunction remedy writ
justice :: n. 1) fairness. 2) moral rightness. 3) a scheme or ... e appellate courts. See also: court
justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test.
justiciable :: n. referring to a matter which is capable of being ... e of action" or "justiciable case."
jury trial :: n. a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution in ... the final judgment. See also: jury
jury tampering :: n. the crime of attempting to influence a jury thr ... e also: jury subornation of perjury
jury :: n. one of the remarkable innovations of the Englis ... hallenge sequester venire voir dire
jury fees :: n. the rather minimal amount paid each day to juro ... ees as a court cost. See also: jury
jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury
juvenile delinquent :: n. a person who is under age (usually below 18), w ... low as 14. See also: juvenile court
laches :: n. the legal doctrine that a legal right or claim ... , breach of contract, fraud, etc.).
legal age :: n. the age at which a person is responsible for hi ... so: infancy juvenile court minority
legal fiction :: n. a presumption of fact assumed by a court for co ... he law, and not law from fictions."
legal separation :: n. a court-decreed right to live apart, with the r ... n is rarely used. See also: divorce
legal advertising :: n. 1) notices of probate sales and other documents ... quality of the lawyers advertising.
leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection
law and motion calendar :: n. a court calendar in which only motions and spec ... special legal arguments are heard.
lawsuit :: n. a common term for a legal action by one person ... See also: case cause of action suit
lay a foundation :: v. in evidence, to provide to the judge the qualif ... ce and training. See also: evidence
juror :: n. any person who actually serves on a jury. Lists ... : Grand Jury jury jury panel venire
jurisdictional amount :: n. the range between the minimum and maximum amoun ... equirements. See also: jurisdiction
judge :: 1) n. an official with the authority and responsib ... ice justice of the peace magistrate
judge advocate :: n. a military officer with legal training who has ... ourt-martial judge advocate general
judge advocate general :: (J.A.G.) n. a military officer who advises the gov ... also: court-martial judge advocate
Jones Act :: n., adj. a federal law which covers injuries to cr ... ." See also: admiralty maritime law
joint tenancy :: n. a crucial relationship in the ownership of real ... ty property tenancy in common title
joint and several :: adj. referring to a debt or a judgment for neglige ... ution contributory negligence joint
joint custody :: n. in divorce actions, a decision by the court (of ... em. See also: child custody divorce
joint enterprise :: n. a generic term for an activity of two or more p ... liability joint venture partnership
judgment :: n. the final decision by a court in a lawsuit, cri ... ous with judgment. See also: decree
judgment creditor :: n. the winning plaintiff in a lawsuit to whom the ... 's rights judgment prevailing party
judicial sale :: n. a sale of goods by an official (keeper, trustee ... o be sold. See also: sheriff's sale
jump bail :: v. to fail to appear for a court appearance after ... also: bail bail bond bail bondsman
jurisdiction :: n. the authority given by law to a court to try ca ... Superior Court Supreme Court venue
judicial proceedings :: n. any action by a judge re: trials, hearings, pet ... efore the court. See also: judicial
judicial notice :: n. the authority of a judge to accept as facts cer ... elts in the sun. See also: evidence
judicial :: adj., adv. 1) referring to a judge, court or the c ... court or the court system. 2) fair.
judicial discretion :: n. the power of the judge to make decisions on som ... iscretion beyond his/her authority.
judicial foreclosure :: n. a judgment by a court in favor of foreclosure o ... deed of trust foreclosure mortgage
harmless error :: n. an error by a judge in the conduct of a trial w ... ar to be harmless." See also: error
habeas corpus :: (hay-bee-us core-puss) n. Latin for "you have the ... nality of a state court conviction.
enjoin :: v. for a court to order that someone either do a s ... so: injunction temporary injunction
enter a judgment :: v. to officially record a judgment on the "judgmen ... ounced. See also: entry of judgment
environmental law :: n. a body of state and federal statutes intended t ... imental effects on the environment.
en banc :: (on bonk) French for "in the bench," it signifies ... he case and agreed to by the court.
emotional distress :: n. an increasingly popular basis for a claim of da ... ar value upon it. See also: damages
duress :: n. the use of force, false imprisonment or threats ... pardoned by President Jimmy Carter.
election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented.
eminent domain :: n. the power of a governmental entity (federal, st ... ngs. See also: condemn condemnation
equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law
equitable :: adj. 1) just, based on fairness and not legal tech ... es or give relief. See also: equity
estate :: n. 1) all that one owns in real estate and other a ... ife estate probate real estate will
estoppel :: n. a bar or impediment (obstruction) which preclud ... pel equitable estoppel estop laches
evidence :: n. every type of proof legally presented at trial ... material object objection relevant
error :: n. a mistake by a judge in procedure or in substan ... or. See also: harmless error remand
erroneous :: adj. 1) in error, wrong. 2) not according to estab ... n a legal decision or court ruling.
equitable estoppel :: n. where a court will not grant a judgment or othe ... also: clean hands doctrine estoppel
equitable lien :: n. a lien on property imposed by a court in order ... lso: constructive trust equity lien
equity :: n. 1) a venerable group of rights and procedures t ... ry enjoin equitable injunction writ
due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights.
drop dead date :: n. a provision in a contract or a court order whic ... ng property or entering a judgment.
disbar :: v. to remove an attorney from the list of practici ... legal ethics. (See moral turpitude
discharge :: v. 1) to perform one's duties. 2) to dismiss someo ... d not be paid. See also: bankruptcy
dismissal :: n. 1) the act of voluntarily terminating a crimina ... f the settlement. See also: dismiss
direct examination :: n. the first questioning of a witness during a tri ... nation deposition testimony witness
dictum :: n. Latin for "remark," a comment by a judge in a d ... cta)." See also: dicta obiter dicta
depose :: v. 1) to ask questions of a witness or a party to ... tion. See also: deponent deposition
deposition :: n. the taking and recording of testimony of a witn ... See also: deponent depose discovery
desertion :: n. the act of abandoning, particularly leaving one ... tody and other post-marital issues.
disposition :: n. the court's final determination of a lawsuit or ... on of a lawsuit or criminal charge.
dissent :: n. 1) the opinion of a judge of a court of appeals ... sagreement with prevailing thought.
docket :: 1) n. the cases on a court calendar. 2) n. brief n ... r or make notes on action in court.
domestic violence :: n. the continuing crime and problem of the physica ... ravated assault assault and battery
domicile :: n. the place where a person has his/her permanent ... where its headquarters is located.
divorce :: 1) n. the termination of a marriage by legal actio ... y separate property spousal support
divestiture :: n. the court-ordered or voluntary giving up of a p ... nopoly or other restraint of trade.
distinguish :: v. to argue that the rule in one appeals court dec ... arity (i.e. it is "distinguished").
distress :: 1) n. the self-help taking of another's possession ... rice due to negative circumstances.
diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000.
ex parte :: (ex par-tay, but popularly, ex party) adj. Latin m ... and place of any ex parte hearing.
examination :: n. 1) the questioning of a witness by an attorney. ... irect examination testimony witness
forum non conveniens :: (for-uhm nahn cahn-vee-nee-ehns) n. Latin for a fo ... most convenient location for trial.
foster child :: n. a child without parental support and protection ... local government or a state agency.
friendly suit :: n. a lawsuit filed in order to obtain a court orde ... eement in which there was an error.
forum :: n. a court which has jurisdiction to hold a trial ... f a particular lawsuit or petition.
forthwith :: adv. a term found in contracts, court orders and s ... mediacy, with no excuses for delay.
forensic :: 1) adj. from Latin forensis for "belonging to the ... in legal matters, including trials.
forensic medicine :: n. research, reports and testimony in court by exp ... dical examiners. See also: forensic
forensic testimony :: n. any testimony of expert scientific, engineering ... ee also: forensic forensic medicine
frivolous :: adj. referring to a legal move in a lawsuit clearl ... ing the courts to resolve disputes.
gag order :: n. a judge's order prohibiting the attorneys and t ... st day in office, January 22, 1993.
Grand Jury :: n. a jury in each county or federal court district ... arge indictment preliminary hearing
guardian :: n. a person who has been appointed by a judge to t ... torship. See also: conservator ward
guardian ad litem :: n. a person appointed by the court only to take le ... awsuit is filed. See also: ad litem
good cause :: n. a legally sufficient reason for a ruling or oth ... od cause shown, the court orders:."
general appearance :: n. an attorney's representation of a client in cou ... case. See also: special appearance
garnish :: v. to obtain a court order directing a party holdi ... ed. See also: garnishee garnishment
garnishee :: n. a person or entity, quite often a bank or emplo ... ourt. See also: garnish garnishment
garnishment :: n. the entire process of petitioning for and getti ... heriff. See also: garnish garnishee
foreclosure sale :: n. the actual forced sale of real property at a pu ... dicial sale mortgage sheriff's sale
first impression :: adj. referring to a legal issue which has never be ... s for both sides to assist him/her.
execution :: n. 1) the act of getting an officer of the court t ... so: death penalty writ of execution
executive privilege :: n. a claim by the President or another high offici ... the Watergate scandal (1973-1974).
expert witness :: n. a person who is a specialist in a subject, ofte ... sitions. See also: expert testimony
execute :: v. 1) to finish, complete or perform as required, ... ishment contract executed execution
excusable neglect :: n. a legitimate excuse for the failure of a party ... See also: default default judgment
exception :: n. 1) a formal objection during trial ("We take ex ... cluded. See also: exception in deed
excessive bail :: n. an amount of bail ordered posted by an accused ... ppeal for reduction. See also: bail
exclusionary rule :: n. the rule that evidence secured by illegal means ... e poisonous tree motion to suppress
extrajudicial :: adj. referring to actions outside the judicial (co ... gnized by the judge during a trial.
extraordinary fees :: n. attorneys' fees claimed, usually in the adminis ... n. See also: attorney's fee probate
file :: 1) v. to deposit with the clerk of the court a wri ... rrespondence and notes on the case.
final judgment :: n. the written determination of a lawsuit by the j ... : final decree interlocutory decree
final settlement :: n. an agreement reached by the parties to a lawsui ... rneys present. See also: settlement
Federal Tort Claims Act :: n. a statute (1948) which removed the power of the ... diction to federal district courts.
federal question :: n. one basis for filing a lawsuit in federal distr ... ves the federal court jurisdiction.
eyewitness :: n. a person who has actually seen an event and can ... event and can so testify in court.
fair comment :: n. a statement of opinion (no matter how ludicrous ... amation libel public figure slander
letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate