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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 2055 bill of attainder :: n. a legislative act which declares a named person ... e I, Section 9 of the Constitution. bill :: n. 1) what is commonly called a "check" by which t ... ions, which is falling into disuse. bill of lading :: n. a receipt obtained by the shipper of goods from ... ll of lading, there is no delivery. bill of sale :: n. a written statement attesting to the transfer ( ... ther provisions. See also: contract Bill of Rights :: n. the first ten amendments to the federal Constit ... ved to the states or to the people. bill of particulars :: n. a written itemization of claims which a defenda ... the factual bases for the charges. meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract make :: v. 1) to create something. 2) to sign a check, pro ... xchange check maker promissory note holder :: n. a general term for anyone in possession of prop ... older in due course promissory note draw :: v. 1) to prepare any document. 2) specifically to ... signed a bill of exchange or check. drawee :: n. the party who is to be paid on a bill of exchan ... r check. See also: bill of exchange endorse (indorse) :: v. 1) to sign one's name to the back of a check, b ... or candidate. See also: endorsement endorsement :: (indorsement)n. 1) the act of the owner or payee s ... te. See also: negotiable instrument cashier's check :: n. a check issued by a bank on its own account for ... ansfers, tax payments and the like. negotiable instrument :: n. check, promissory note, bill of exchange, secur ... bearer paper bill of exchange check postdated check :: n. a check delivered now with a written date in th ... livery of a bad check was criminal. power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. delayed exchange :: n. an exchange of property to put off capital gain ... method and survived an IRS lawsuit. exchange :: 1) v. to trade or barter property, goods and/or se ... ins tax. See also: delayed exchange restrictive endorsement :: n. an endorsement signed on the back of a check, n ... indorsement." See also: endorsement negotiation :: n. 1) the transfer of a check, promissory note, bi ... te. See also: negotiable instrument recourse :: n. the right to demand payment to the writer of a ... e. See also: bill of exchange check draft :: 1) n. a bill of exchange or check in which one par ... s. See also: bill of exchange check certified check :: n. a check issued by a bank which certifies that t ... "clears." See also: cashier's check 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. inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial articles of incorporation :: n. the basic charter of a corporation which spells ... year's taxes. See also: corporation right of way :: n. 1) a pathway or road with a specific descriptio ... s easement egress floating easement risk of loss :: n. the responsibility a carrier, borrower or user ... e is damage or loss. See also: risk tools of trade :: n. in bankruptcy law, the equipment a person requi ... pay creditors. See also: bankruptcy return of service :: n. written confirmation under oath by a process se ... ee also: service service of process contemplation of death :: n. the anticipation of death in a relatively short ... e also: unified estate and gift tax contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction conflict of law :: n. a situation in which both state and federal law ... y arose. See also: forum preemption restraint of trade :: n. in antitrust law, any activity (including agree ... also: antitrust laws monopoly trust conflict of interest :: n. a situation in which a person has a duty to mor ... a position adverse to the customer. satisfaction of mortgage :: n. a document signed by a lender acknowledging tha ... id off the debt. See also: mortgage conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment assumption of risk :: n. 1) taking a chance in a potentially dangerous s ... d be damaged or prove unprofitable. confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant. rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule Restatement of the Law :: n. a series of detailed statements of the basic la ... tracts, property, torts and trusts. counter offer :: n. an offer made in response to a previous offer b ... it expire. See also: contract offer deed of trust :: n. a document which pledges real property to secur ... : foreclosure mortgage reconveyance declaration of trust :: n. the document signed by a trustor (settlor) crea ... also: settlor trust trustee trustor declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration degree of kinship :: n. the level of relationship between two persons r ... there is no will. See also: descent transfer in contemplation of death :: n. giving property under the belief of the giver t ... lso: gift in contemplation of death 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 registry of deeds :: n. the records of land title documents kept by the ... mployee to locate. See also: record crime of passion :: n. a defendant's excuse for committing a crime due ... dant. See also: manslaughter murder court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court course of employment :: adj. actively involved in a person's employment at ... Acts. See also: scope of employment scope of employment :: n. actions of an employee which further the busine ... ter and servant respondeat superior Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark court of equity :: n. originally in English common law and in several ... also: chancery court of law equity articles of impeachment :: n. the charges brought (filed) to impeach a public ... y the Senate. See also: impeachment court of law :: n. any tribunal within a judicial system. Under En ... aw. See also: chancery court equity cost of completion :: n. the amount of money (damages) required to compl ... d on percentage of work to be done. commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition capital offense :: n. any criminal charge which is punishable by the ... . See also: bail capital punishment substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline. cause of action :: n. the basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds ... property. See also: element lawsuit benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault. summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance breach of promise :: n. historically, the dumping of a female fiancee b ... d no longer exist. See also: breach subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury board of directors :: n. the policy managers of a corporation or organiz ... he expertise. See also: corporation statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. burden of proof :: n. the requirement that the plaintiff (the party b ... ence prima facie weight of evidence suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence Bachelor of Laws :: n. the degree in law from a law school, abbreviate ... troactively. See also: Juris Doctor service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service setoff :: (offset) n. a claim by a defendant in a lawsuit th ... ee also: affirmative defense offset sex offender :: n. generic term for all persons convicted of crime ... pornography rape sexual harassment Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states. color of law :: n. the appearance of an act being performed based ... xtort payoffs to forget the ticket. breach of trust :: n. 1) any act which is in violation of the duties ... ise or confidence. See also: breach color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title." time is of the essence :: n. a phrase often used in contracts which in effec ... g the agreement. See also: contract shifting the burden of proof :: n. the result of the plaintiff in a lawsuit meetin ... o: burden of proof prima facie case certificate of incorporation :: n. document which some states issue to prove a cor ... the articles are sufficient proof. certificate of deposit (CD) :: n. a document issued by a bank in return for a dep ... D before the pledged time runs out. attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed. certificate of title :: n. generally, the title document for a motor vehic ... a "pink slip." See also: pink slip proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence 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 sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny. entry of judgment :: n. the placement of a judgment on the official rol ... on the official roll of judgments. notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice heirs of the body :: n. descendants of one's bloodline, such as childre ... nal owner. See also: heir reversion heat of passion :: n. in a criminal case, when the accused was in an ... oing. See also: manslaughter murder not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity non-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine muniment of title :: n. documentary evidence of title to real property. ... also: deed quiet title action title implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution head of household :: n. 1) in federal income tax law, the person filing ... n or daughter. 3) "head of family." obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime. offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony 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 offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract offense :: n. a crime or punishable violation of law of any t ... type or magnitude. See also: crime of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar offender :: n. an accused defendant in a criminal case or one ... crime. See also: accused defendant 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. jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate letter of credit :: n. a document issued by a bank guaranteeing to pro ... ong-distance business transactions. law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. loss of bargain :: n. the inability to complete a sale or other busin ... ned in a lawsuit. See also: damages joinder of issue :: n. that point in a lawsuit when the defendant has ... matters are to be decided by trial. mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne indictable offense :: n. a crime (offense) for which a Grand Jury rules ... o commit them. See also: indictment misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages officer :: n. 1) a high-level management official of a corpor ... deputy sheriff or federal marshal. officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge power of acceptance :: n. the ability to accept an offer and thus create ... ecide to accept the original offer. trier of fact :: n. the judge or jury responsible for deciding fact ... r referee may be the trier of fact. power of appointment :: n. the right to leave property by will, transfer, ... death of the person with the power. equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law equity of redemption :: n. the right of a mortgagor (person owing on a loa ... so: foreclosure mortgage redemption ex officio :: a (ex oh-fish-ee-oh)dj. Latin for "from the office ... ne is president of the corporation. 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 preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented. diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000. professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation proffer :: v. to offer evidence in a trial. ... v. to offer evidence in a trial. principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights. presumption of innocence :: n. a fundamental protection for a person accused o ... yond a reasonable doubt presumption duty of care :: n. a requirement that a person act toward others a ... e also: negligence standard of care peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate fact finder (finder of fact) :: n. in a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution ... n facts. See also: question of fact gift in contemplation of death :: n. (called a gift causa mortis by lawyers showing ... ift tax unified estate and gift tax operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. frustration of purpose :: n. sometimes called commercial frustration, when u ... n. See also: commercial frustration offshore corporation :: n. a corporation chartered under the laws of a cou ... nds in accounts out of the country. offset :: 1) n. also called a "setoff," the deduction by a d ... e also: counterclaim defense setoff official :: 1) adj. referring to an act, document or anything ... tion or business. See also: officer official misconduct :: n. improper and/or illegal acts by a public offici ... ty. See also: color of law official officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. party of the second part :: n. a reference to a party to a written contract, a ... " See also: party of the first part failure of consideration :: n. not delivering goods or services when promised ... n. See also: consideration contract firm offer :: n. in contract law, an offer (usually in writing) ... ptance contract counter offer offer four corners of an instrument :: n. the term for studying an entire document to und ... solve an ambiguity in its language. out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. dissolution of corporation :: n. termination of a corporation, either a) volunta ... e government. See also: corporation rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies"). true bill :: n. the written decision of a Grand Jury (signed by ... to the court. See also: indictment treasury bill :: n. a promissory note issued in multiples of $10,00 ... e also: treasury bond treasury note cost bill :: n. a list of claimed court costs submitted by the ... also: court costs prevailing party check :: n. a draft upon a particular account in a bank, in ... rtified check negotiable instrument weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence 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 abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien admission of evidence :: n. a judge's acceptance of evidence in a trial. Se ... ence in a trial. See also: evidence cut a check :: v. to write (prepare) and sign a check. ... o write (prepare) and sign a check. agent for acceptance of service :: n. states require that a corporation name an actua ... corporations. See also: corporation drawer :: n. the person who signs a bill of exchange. See al ... xchange. See also: bill of exchange alienation of affections :: n. convincing a wife to leave her husband, often f ... een abolished in almost all states. for value received :: prep. a phrase used in a promissory note, a bill o ... hout stating what that payment was. maturity :: n. 1) the date when the payment of the principal a ... exchange legal age promissory note 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). abuse of process :: n. the use of legal process by illegal, malicious, ... ly correct the error and apologize. admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights acceptance :: n. 1) receiving something from another with the in ... ered into. See also: contract offer youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent 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 words of art :: n. 1) specialized language with meaning peculiar t ... cialize in a particular occupation. writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment act of God :: n. a natural catastrophe which no one can prevent ... atural event. God knows the answer! acceptance of service :: n. agreement by a defendant (or his/her attorney) ... o accept service. See also: service holder in due course :: n. one holding a check or promissory note, receive ... note. See also: bona fide purchaser no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain harassment :: (either harris-meant or huh-rass-meant) n. the act ... See also: harass sexual harassment impound :: v. 1) to collect funds, in addition to installment ... cases. See also: forfeit forfeiture liquidate :: v. to sell the assets of a business, paying bills ... other investors. See also: wind up pain and suffering :: n. the physical and mental distress suffered from ... l damages special damages suffering protest :: 1) v. to complain in some public way about any act ... dishonored (not paid by the bank). per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. or :: conj. either; in the alternative. It is often vita ... n," both must sign to change title. closing :: n. the final step in the sale and purchase of real ... company, escrow holder or attorney. lien :: n. any official claim or charge against property o ... ord's lien mechanic's lien mortgage prospectus :: n. a detailed statement by a corporation required ... rporation limited partnership stock joint venture :: n. an enterprise entered into by two or more peopl ... s terminated. See also: partnership immunity :: n. exemption from penalties, payments or legal req ... ws. See also: governmental immunity court costs :: n. fees for expenses that the courts pass on to at ... ee also: cost bill prevailing party unilateral contract :: n. an agreement to pay in exchange for performance ... consideration contract performance cruel and unusual punishment :: n. governmental penalties against convicted crimin ... opted. See also: capital punishment blue sky laws :: n. laws intended to protect the public from purcha ... e sky." See also: corporation stock blank endorsement :: n. endorsement of a check or other negotiable pape ... id. See also: negotiable instrument counterclaim :: n. a retaliatory claim by a defendant against a pl ... d. See also: answer cross-complaint insider trading :: n. the use of confidential information about a bus ... o catch insiders. See also: insider insider :: n. someone who has a position in a business or sto ... ange Act. See also: insider trading damages :: n. the amount of money which a plaintiff (the pers ... liquidated damages special damages dishonor :: v. to refuse to pay the face amount of a check or ... he amount due on a promissory note. promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant gag order :: n. a judge's order prohibiting the attorneys and t ... st day in office, January 22, 1993. probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure FOB :: 1) adj. short for free on board, meaning shipped t ... cost. 2) Friend of Bill (Clinton). promotional stock :: n. stock issued in a newly formed corporation and ... assets or money. See also: promoter incorporate :: v. 1) to obtain an official charter or articles of ... te by reference incorporation stock capital gains :: n. the difference between the sales price and the ... so: basis delayed exchange exchange general partner :: n. 1) usually one of the owners and operators of a ... ted partnership partner partnership separation agreement :: n. an agreement between two married people who hav ... divorce legal separation separation withdrawal :: n. 1) in criminal law, leaving a conspiracy to com ... count. See also: check renunciation law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. expert witness :: n. a person who is a specialist in a subject, ofte ... sitions. See also: expert testimony corporation :: n. an organization formed with state governmental ... ation public corporation securities professional negligence :: n. See also: malpractice ... n. See also: malpractice payment in full :: n. the giving of all funds due to another. This la ... ee accepts the payment as complete. stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law findings of fact :: n. See also: finding ... n. See also: finding age of consent :: n. See also: legal age majority ... n. See also: legal age majority reciprocity :: n. mutual exchange of privileges between states, n ... any large states refuse to give it. reciprocal discovery :: n. the exchange of documents, lists of witnesses, ... n before trial. See also: discovery contract of adhesion :: n. See also: adhesion contract ... n. See also: adhesion contract evasion of tax :: n. the intentional attempt to avoid paying taxes t ... rs. See also: estate tax income tax registration statement :: n. a detailed report to be filed with the Securiti ... See also: blue sky laws prospectus failure of issue :: n. when someone dies leaving no children or other ... ildren or other direct descendants. contract :: 1) n. an agreement with specific terms between two ... n oral contract unilateral contract writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate commingling :: n. the act of mixing the funds belonging to one pa ... rust accounts for funds of another. commission :: n. 1) a fee paid based on a percentage of the sale ... on or the Federal Trade Commission. self-dealing :: n. in the stock market, using secret "inside" info ... ederal Securities and Exchange Act. special damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... . See also: damages general damages breach of the peace :: n. any act which disturbs the public or even one p ... g inappropriately. See also: breach search and seizure :: n. examination of a person's premises (residence, ... robable cause search search warrant sedition :: n. the federal crime of advocacy of insurrection a ... e rare. See also: espionage treason suffering :: n. the pain, hurt, inconvenience, embarrassment an ... njury negligence pain and suffering tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case consideration :: n. 1) payment or money. 2) a vital element in the ... t of a promise). See also: contract winding up :: n. liquidating the assets of a corporation or part ... ration cy pres doctrine partnership constitutional rights :: n. rights given or reserved to the people by the U ... e also: Bill of Rights constitution three strikes, you're out :: n. recent (beginning 1994) legislation enacted in ... ich involve small amounts of money. treasury note :: n. a promissory note issued by the U.S. Treasury, ... e also: treasury bill treasury bond rider :: n. 1) an attachment to a document which adds to or ... sic bill has support. 3) passenger. privilege against self incrimina-tion :: n. a right to refuse to testify against oneself in ... so: Bill of Rights taking the Fifth bargain :: n. 1) a mutual agreement or contract between two p ... o: agreement consideration contract adjuster :: n. an employee (usually a non-lawyer) of an insura ... e company in approving settlements. bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy American Depository Receipt :: n. called in the banking trade an ADR, it is a rec ... ding the foreign shares themselves. account stated :: n. a statement between a creditor or the person to ... ending on the state. See also: debt basis :: n. the original cost of an asset to be used to det ... ssistance. See also: adjusted basis assess :: v. to set a value on property, usually for the pur ... e place upon sale of real property. confrontation :: n. 1) fight or argument. 2) the right of a crimina ... s. See also: Bill of Rights witness civil rights :: n. those rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, ... ill of Rights civil civil liberties treble damages :: n. tripling damages allowed by state statute in ce ... damage penalties. See also: damages confess :: v. in criminal law, to voluntarily state that one ... Miranda warning self-incrimination bank :: n. 1) an officially chartered institution empowere ... erred to as "in bank" or "en banc." confession :: n. the statement of one charged with a crime that ... Miranda warning self-incrimination abortion :: n. the termination of pregnancy by various means, ... ed abortion continue in the future. malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum trade :: 1) n. a business or occupation for profit, particu ... rade fixture trade secret trademark constitution :: n. the fundamental, underlying document which esta ... ts common law constitutional rights bill of exchange :: n. a writing by a party (maker or drawer) ordering ... awn on a bank account is a "check." performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance perform :: v. 1) to fulfill one's obligations under a contrac ... court order. See also: performance plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction permanent disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood. perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead pledge :: v. to deposit personal property as security for a ... ise to do something. See also: pawn plead :: v. 1) in civil lawsuits and petitions, to file any ... al conduct. See also: plea pleading plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing letters testamentary :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... te. See also: administrator probate permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards. picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation letters :: n. shorthand for letters testamentary or letters o ... administration letters testamentary piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution pilferage :: n. a crime of theft of little things, usually from ... ipments or baggage. See also: theft per stirpes :: (purr stir-peas) adj. Latin for "by roots," by rep ... descent and distribution trust will petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party permit :: 1) v. to allow by silence, agreement or giving a l ... f public revenue. See also: license pink slip :: n. 1) slang for official automobile registration c ... being fired or laid off from a job. personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty 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 personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author. partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. partner :: n. 1) one of the co-owners and investors in a "par ... ner limited partnership partnership participate :: v. to invest and then receive a part or share, as ... he estate of a person who has died. partial verdict :: n. in a criminal trial, the result when the jury f ... re other charges. See also: verdict partial disability :: n. the result of an injury which permanently reduc ... erson's normal functioning is gone. partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent passenger :: n. a rider who has paid a fare on a train, bus, ai ... also: common carrier guest statute party wall :: n. a wall shared by two adjoining premises which i ... the property of one of the parties. libel :: 1) n. to publish in print (including pictures), wr ... libel per se public figure slander bilateral contract :: n. an agreement in which the parties exchange prom ... also: contract unilateral contract bearer :: n. anyone holding something, such as a check, prom ... bearer paper negotiable instrument partial breach :: n. the failure to meet a term of a contract which ... g in the missing or expected items. parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward libel per se :: n. broadcast or written publication of a false sta ... See also: defamation libel slander pardon :: 1) v. to use the executive power of a Governor or ... also: amnesty commutation reprieve parcel :: n. a defined piece of real estate, usually resulti ... See also: real estate real property parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption parental neglect :: n. a crime consisting of acts or omissions of a pa ... usive or sexually predatory person. 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. parody :: n. the humorous use of an existing song, play, or ... l significance. See also: copyright parish :: n. 1) a geographic area served by a church (partic ... overnmental equivalent of a county. passion :: n. See also: heat of passion ... n. See also: heat of passion passive :: adj. referring to being inactive. A "passive trust ... ment and interest on bank accounts. lewd and lascivious :: adj., adv. references to conduct which includes pe ... t exposure pornography prostitution penalty :: n. 1) in criminal law, a money fine or forfeiture ... contractor fails to complete a job. 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 peeping tom :: n. a person who stealthily peeks into windows, hol ... n the basis of invasion of privacy. levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution penitentiary :: n. a state or federal prison in which convicts are ... mission of major crimes (felonies). per diem :: adj. or n. Latin for "per day," it is short for pa ... or fees of an employee or an agent. leverage :: 1) n. the use of borrowed money to purchase real e ... e been created by risky leveraging. police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing per :: prep. from Latin for "by means of" or simply, "by" ... (by day) or "per capita" (by head). pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape peculation :: n. misappropriation of public (government) funds o ... roperty. See also: misappropriation patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent liable :: adj. responsible or obligated. Thus, a person or e ... al prosecution. See also: liability patent ambiguity :: n. an obvious inconsistency in the language of a w ... the language of a written document. patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent paternity suit :: n. a lawsuit, usually by a mother, to prove that a ... d to a prompt and quiet settlement. peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order liability :: n. one of the most significant words in the field ... bility joint tortfeasors negligence 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 per se :: (purr say) adj. Latin for "by itself," meaning inh ... e statement. See also: libel per se possess :: v. to own, have title to, occupy, physically hold ... ng the estate. See also: possession privilege :: n. a special benefit, exemption from a duty, or im ... rson, a group or a class of people. private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement private parts :: n. men's or women's genitalia, excluding a woman's ... duction and/or sale of pornography. 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 privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights. 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. privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract 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 primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. legal :: adj., adv. according to law, not in violation of l ... law or anything related to the law. prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning wrongful termination :: n. a right of an employee to sue his/her employer ... ing an employee's grounds for suit. wrongful death :: n. the death of a human being as the result of a w ... ual beneficiaries (family members). principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). 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). legacy :: n. a gift of personal property or money to a benef ... o: beneficiary bequest legatee will 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 leading :: 1) v. short for "leading the witness," in which th ... tness leading the witness objection leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate 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. proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party Workmen's Compensation :: n. a former name for worker's compensation before ... isex title of the acts was adopted. 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 World Court :: n. the Court of International Justice, founded by ... rd and to be bound by the decision. writ :: n. a written order of a judge requiring specific a ... ntity to whom the writ is directed. leasehold :: n. the real estate which is the subject of a lease ... sehold. See also: condominium lease 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 leading the witness :: n. asking a question during a trial or deposition ... n hostile witness leading objection lease :: 1) n. a written agreement in which the owner of pr ... triple net lease unlawful detainer 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 legal advertising :: n. 1) notices of probate sales and other documents ... quality of the lawyers advertising. price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. legitimate :: adj., adv1) legal, proper, real. 2) referring to a ... 3) v. to make proper and/or legal. lemon law :: n. statutes adopted in some states to make it easi ... still trying" to make it run right. lesser crime :: n. See also: lesser-included offense ... . See also: lesser-included offense pour over will :: n. a will of a person who has already executed a t ... invalid trust. See also: trust will legatee :: n. a person or organization receiving a gift of an ... eficiary devise devisee legacy will legalese :: n. slang for the sometimes arcane, convoluted and ... rgon of lawyers and legal scholars. pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer practice :: 1) n. custom or habit as shown by repeated action, ... s "she practices law in St. Louis." 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 payee :: n. the one named on a check or promissory note to ... promissory note to receive payment. post mortem :: n. Latin for "after death," an examination of a de ... alled an autopsy. See also: coroner paramount title :: n. a right to real property which prevails over an ... n's claim of title. See also: title posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. 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. possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess paper hanger :: n. slang for a person who criminally writes and ca ... ey in them. See also: forgery fraud post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail. lessor :: n. the owner of real property who rents it to a le ... lord and tenant lease lessee tenant let :: v. 1) to allow or permit. This is distinguished fr ... rson. See also: lease rent sublease possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription 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 zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |