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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 2136 conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights. color of law :: n. the appearance of an act being performed based ... xtort payoffs to forget the ticket. court of law :: n. any tribunal within a judicial system. Under En ... aw. See also: chancery court equity operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law conflict of law :: n. a situation in which both state and federal law ... y arose. See also: forum preemption Bachelor of Laws :: n. the degree in law from a law school, abbreviate ... troactively. See also: Juris Doctor Restatement of the Law :: n. a series of detailed statements of the basic la ... tracts, property, torts and trusts. conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment question of law :: n. an issue arising in a lawsuit or criminal prose ... udge question of fact trier of fact law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. conclusion :: n. 1) in general, the end. 2) in a trial, when all ... onclusion of fact conclusion of law law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law international law :: n. treaties between countries; multi-lateral agree ... all nations. See also: World Court court of equity :: n. originally in English common law and in several ... also: chancery court of law equity out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement canon law :: n. laws and regulations over ecclesiastical (churc ... nduct with no religious connection. martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law controlling law :: n. the laws of the state which will be relied upon ... will be that of a particular state. case law :: n. reported decisions of appeals courts and other ... es. See also: case system precedent statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud natural law :: n. 1) standards of conduct derived from traditiona ... eated by mankind through the state. unlawful assembly :: n. the act of assembling for the purpose of starti ... gton and Chicago in the late 1960s. crime of passion :: n. a defendant's excuse for committing a crime due ... dant. See also: manslaughter murder declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate administrative law :: n. the procedures created by administrative agenci ... judge Administrative Procedure Act obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime. substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. unlawful detainer :: n. 1) keeping possession of real property without ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. bylaws :: n. the written rules for conduct of a corporation, ... d/or amended. See also: corporation statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll burden of proof :: n. the requirement that the plaintiff (the party b ... ence prima facie weight of evidence consumer protection laws :: n. almost all states and the federal government ha ... rranty product liability securities Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states. official misconduct :: n. improper and/or illegal acts by a public offici ... ty. See also: color of law official offset :: 1) n. also called a "setoff," the deduction by a d ... e also: counterclaim defense setoff offshore corporation :: n. a corporation chartered under the laws of a cou ... nds in accounts out of the country. commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar offense :: n. a crime or punishable violation of law of any t ... type or magnitude. See also: crime officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony chain of title :: n. the succession of title ownership to real prope ... title conveyance foreclosure title antitrust laws :: n. acts adopted by Congress to outlaw or restrict ... so: price fixing restraint of trade officer :: n. 1) a high-level management official of a corpor ... deputy sheriff or federal marshal. civil law :: n. 1) a body of laws and legal concepts which come ... generic term for non-criminal law. trier of fact :: n. the judge or jury responsible for deciding fact ... r referee may be the trier of fact. tools of trade :: n. in bankruptcy law, the equipment a person requi ... pay creditors. See also: bankruptcy commercial law :: n. all the law which applies to the rights, relati ... . See also: Uniform Commercial Code mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code multiplicity of suits :: n. several actual or potential lawsuits which shou ... e can order the cases consolidated. presumption of innocence :: n. a fundamental protection for a person accused o ... yond a reasonable doubt presumption loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages contemplation of death :: n. the anticipation of death in a relatively short ... e also: unified estate and gift tax agent for acceptance of service :: n. states require that a corporation name an actua ... corporations. See also: corporation cause of action :: n. the basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds ... property. See also: element lawsuit confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant. common-law marriage :: n. an agreement between a man and woman to live to ... a marriage. See also: cohabitation common law :: n. the traditional unwritten law of England, based ... plied without reference to statute. misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline. standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule law :: n. 1) any system of regulations to govern the cond ... um maritime law natural law statute fact finder (finder of fact) :: n. in a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution ... n facts. See also: question of fact fair trade laws :: n. state laws which permit manufacturers or produc ... state constitutions in many states. right of way :: n. 1) a pathway or road with a specific descriptio ... s easement egress floating easement attorney at law (or attorney-at-law) :: n. (or attorney-at-law) a slightly fancier way of ... r way of saying attorney or lawyer. benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault. abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien law book :: n. any of numerous volumes dealing with law, inclu ... : common law law Shepardize statute lawsuit :: n. a common term for a legal action by one person ... See also: case cause of action suit breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty abuse of discretion :: n. a polite way of saying a trial judge has made s ... partner's realistic ability to pay. non-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine firm offer :: n. in contract law, an offer (usually in writing) ... ptance contract counter offer offer attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed. implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies"). joinder of issue :: n. that point in a lawsuit when the defendant has ... matters are to be decided by trial. invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy question of fact :: n. in a lawsuit or criminal prosecution, an issue ... also: finding judge question of law inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial hornbook law :: n. lawyer lingo for a fundamental and well-accepte ... e a hornbook is a primer of basics. writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning restraint of trade :: n. in antitrust law, any activity (including agree ... also: antitrust laws monopoly trust justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. gift in contemplation of death :: n. (called a gift causa mortis by lawyers showing ... ift tax unified estate and gift tax head of household :: n. 1) in federal income tax law, the person filing ... n or daughter. 3) "head of family." sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny. abuse of process :: n. the use of legal process by illegal, malicious, ... ly correct the error and apologize. proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence setoff :: (offset) n. a claim by a defendant in a lawsuit th ... ee also: affirmative defense offset Bill of Rights :: n. the first ten amendments to the federal Constit ... ved to the states or to the people. service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service blue sky laws :: n. laws intended to protect the public from purcha ... e sky." See also: corporation stock shifting the burden of proof :: n. the result of the plaintiff in a lawsuit meetin ... o: burden of proof prima facie case duty of care :: n. a requirement that a person act toward others a ... e also: negligence standard of care breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance shield laws :: n. statutes enacted in some states which declare t ... See also: privileged communication bill of particulars :: n. a written itemization of claims which a defenda ... the factual bases for the charges. diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000. environmental law :: n. a body of state and federal statutes intended t ... imental effects on the environment. limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations breach of promise :: n. historically, the dumping of a female fiancee b ... d no longer exist. See also: breach lemon law :: n. statutes adopted in some states to make it easi ... still trying" to make it run right. loss of bargain :: n. the inability to complete a sale or other busin ... ned in a lawsuit. See also: damages lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain writ of execution :: n. a court order to a sheriff to enforce a judgmen ... ing plaintiff). See also: execution power of acceptance :: n. the ability to accept an offer and thus create ... ecide to accept the original offer. certificate of title :: n. generally, the title document for a motor vehic ... a "pink slip." See also: pink slip writ of coram nobis :: : (writ of core-uhm noh-bis) n. from Latin for "in ... ment if known at the time of trial. possession of stolen goods :: n. the crime of possession of goods which one know ... e legal owner. See also: possession breach of trust :: n. 1) any act which is in violation of the duties ... ise or confidence. See also: breach words of art :: n. 1) specialized language with meaning peculiar t ... cialize in a particular occupation. bill of sale :: n. a written statement attesting to the transfer ( ... ther provisions. See also: contract possibility of a reverter :: n. the potential that the title to a real property ... further issue. See also: reversion unlawful :: adj. referring to any action which is in violation ... on, or established legal precedents bill of attainder :: n. a legislative act which declares a named person ... e I, Section 9 of the Constitution. muniment of title :: n. documentary evidence of title to real property. ... also: deed quiet title action title capital offense :: n. any criminal charge which is punishable by the ... . See also: bail capital punishment bill of exchange :: n. a writing by a party (maker or drawer) ordering ... awn on a bank account is a "check." bill of lading :: n. a receipt obtained by the shipper of goods from ... ll of lading, there is no delivery. board of directors :: n. the policy managers of a corporation or organiz ... he expertise. See also: corporation notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity certificate of deposit (CD) :: n. a document issued by a bank in return for a dep ... D before the pledged time runs out. weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence certificate of incorporation :: n. document which some states issue to prove a cor ... the articles are sufficient proof. court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court proffer :: v. to offer evidence in a trial. ... v. to offer evidence in a trial. professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation entry of judgment :: n. the placement of a judgment on the official rol ... on the official roll of judgments. equity of redemption :: n. the right of a mortgagor (person owing on a loa ... so: foreclosure mortgage redemption ex officio :: a (ex oh-fish-ee-oh)dj. Latin for "from the office ... ne is president of the corporation. letter of credit :: n. a document issued by a bank guaranteeing to pro ... ong-distance business transactions. letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate dissolution of corporation :: n. termination of a corporation, either a) volunta ... e government. See also: corporation sex offender :: n. generic term for all persons convicted of crime ... pornography rape sexual harassment elder law :: n. a specialty in legal practice, covering estate ... t field. (definition revised: 9/02) election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented. scope of employment :: n. actions of an employee which further the busine ... ter and servant respondeat superior satisfaction of mortgage :: n. a document signed by a lender acknowledging tha ... id off the debt. See also: mortgage heat of passion :: n. in a criminal case, when the accused was in an ... oing. See also: manslaughter murder jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury heirs of the body :: n. descendants of one's bloodline, such as childre ... nal owner. See also: heir reversion registry of deeds :: n. the records of land title documents kept by the ... mployee to locate. See also: record indictable offense :: n. a crime (offense) for which a Grand Jury rules ... o commit them. See also: indictment frustration of purpose :: n. sometimes called commercial frustration, when u ... n. See also: commercial frustration four corners of an instrument :: n. the term for studying an entire document to und ... solve an ambiguity in its language. satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment failure of consideration :: n. not delivering goods or services when promised ... n. See also: consideration contract risk of loss :: n. the responsibility a carrier, borrower or user ... e is damage or loss. See also: risk return of service :: n. written confirmation under oath by a process se ... ee also: service service of process life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate conflict of interest :: n. a situation in which a person has a duty to mor ... a position adverse to the customer. mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract time is of the essence :: n. a phrase often used in contracts which in effec ... g the agreement. See also: contract color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title." change of circumstances :: n. the principal reason for a court modifying (ame ... ild support divorce spousal support power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. transfer in contemplation of death :: n. giving property under the belief of the giver t ... lso: gift in contemplation of death mitigation of damages :: n. the requirement that someone injured by another ... he lease) to mitigate his/her loss. matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. cost of completion :: n. the amount of money (damages) required to compl ... d on percentage of work to be done. declaration of trust :: n. the document signed by a trustor (settlor) crea ... also: settlor trust trustee trustor principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. deed of trust :: n. a document which pledges real property to secur ... : foreclosure mortgage reconveyance degree of kinship :: n. the level of relationship between two persons r ... there is no will. See also: descent loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages criminal law :: n. those statutes dealing with crimes against the ... See also: crime felony misdemeanor summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment counter offer :: n. an offer made in response to a previous offer b ... it expire. See also: contract offer suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence course of employment :: adj. actively involved in a person's employment at ... Acts. See also: scope of employment youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent power of appointment :: n. the right to leave property by will, transfer, ... death of the person with the power. Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark 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. admission of evidence :: n. a judge's acceptance of evidence in a trial. Se ... ence in a trial. See also: evidence acceptance of service :: n. agreement by a defendant (or his/her attorney) ... o accept service. See also: service admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate assumption of risk :: n. 1) taking a chance in a potentially dangerous s ... d be damaged or prove unprofitable. alienation of affections :: n. convincing a wife to leave her husband, often f ... een abolished in almost all states. abstract of title :: n. the written report on a title search which show ... e also: chain of title title report official :: 1) adj. referring to an act, document or anything ... tion or business. See also: officer trial :: n. the examination of facts and law presided over ... at a hearing held at a later time. finding :: n. the determination of a factual question vital ( ... e case. See also: conclusion of law offeror :: n. a person or entity who makes a specific proposa ... t. See also: contract offer offeree blue laws :: n. state or local laws which prohibit certain acti ... estiges remain at least informally. articles of impeachment :: n. the charges brought (filed) to impeach a public ... y the Senate. See also: impeachment ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. act of God :: n. a natural catastrophe which no one can prevent ... atural event. God knows the answer! objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain articles of incorporation :: n. the basic charter of a corporation which spells ... year's taxes. See also: corporation mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial offeree :: n. a person or entity to whom an offer to enter in ... t is made by another (the offeror). judgment notwithstanding the verdict :: (N.O.V.) n. reversal of a jury's verdict by the tr ... veredicto. See also: N.O.V. verdict offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract offender :: n. an accused defendant in a criminal case or one ... crime. See also: accused defendant officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule positive law :: n. statutory man-made law, as compared to "natural ... 651). See also: natural law statute outlaw :: n. popularly, anyone who commits serious crimes an ... us crimes and acts outside the law. party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. contingent fee :: n. a fee to a lawyer which will be due and payable ... epend on the outcome are unethical. administrative law judge :: n. a professional hearing officer who works for th ... higher pay in being called "judge." party of the second part :: n. a reference to a party to a written contract, a ... " See also: party of the first part substantive law :: n. law which establishes principles and creates an ... are conducted. See also: procedure federal question :: n. one basis for filing a lawsuit in federal distr ... ves the federal court jurisdiction. self-serving :: adj. referring to a question asked of a party to a ... ng declaration. See also: objection equity :: n. 1) a venerable group of rights and procedures t ... ry enjoin equitable injunction writ legalese :: n. slang for the sometimes arcane, convoluted and ... rgon of lawyers and legal scholars. error :: n. a mistake by a judge in procedure or in substan ... or. See also: harmless error remand promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant Federal Tort Claims Act :: n. a statute (1948) which removed the power of the ... diction to federal district courts. employee :: n. a person who is hired for a wage, salary, fee o ... ondeat superior scope of employment self-help :: n. 1) obtaining relief or enforcing one's rights w ... maximizing of one's opportunities. legal duty :: n. the responsibility to others to act according t ... al injuries. See also: duty of care legal advertising :: n. 1) notices of probate sales and other documents ... quality of the lawyers advertising. legal :: adj., adv. according to law, not in violation of l ... law or anything related to the law. seizure :: n. the taking by law enforcement officers of poten ... e search and seizure search warrant abduction :: n. the criminal taking away of a person by persuas ... g of children. See also: kidnapping legal fiction :: n. a presumption of fact assumed by a court for co ... he law, and not law from fictions." self-dealing :: n. in the stock market, using secret "inside" info ... ederal Securities and Exchange Act. emotional distress :: n. an increasingly popular basis for a claim of da ... ar value upon it. See also: damages peeping tom :: n. a person who stealthily peeks into windows, hol ... n the basis of invasion of privacy. entrapment :: n. in criminal law, the act of law enforcement off ... e drugs if not pressed by the narc? servant :: n. an employee of an employer, technically one who ... ndent contractor master and servant fertile octogenarian :: n. an unrealistic notion that any person (male or ... e passed laws to cure this anomaly. parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption peer review :: n. an examination and evaluation of the performanc ... claiming damages due to negligence. accrue :: v. 1) growing or adding to, such as interest on a ... the contract (anticipatory breach). service by publication :: n. serving a summons or other legal document in a ... perty. See also: service of process fictitious defendants :: n. when a party suing (plaintiff) is not sure if h ... are not permitted in federal cases. product liability :: n. the responsibility of manufacturers, distributo ... e known. See also: warrant warranty separation agreement :: n. an agreement between two married people who hav ... divorce legal separation separation employer :: n. a person or entity which hires the services of ... gency. See also: employee principal family purpose doctrine :: n. a rule of law that the registered owner of an a ... riving his/her car with permission. riot :: n. 1) technically a turbulent and violent disturba ... to unlawful possession of firearms. penalty :: n. 1) in criminal law, a money fine or forfeiture ... contractor fails to complete a job. sentence :: 1) n. the punishment given to a person convicted o ... ence restitution suspended sentence rights :: n. 1) plural of right, which is the collection of ... evidence. See also: Miranda warning right to privacy :: n. the possible right to be let alone, in absence ... e also: invasion of privacy privacy separate property :: n. in community property states (California, Texas ... pouse. See also: community property riparian rights :: n. the right of the owner of the land forming the ... elled away from its natural course. et seq. :: (et seek) n. abbreviation for the Latin phrase et ... Vehicle Code Section 1204, et seq." exhibit :: n. 1) a document or object (including a photograph ... ncorporated into the main document. partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. expert witness :: n. a person who is a specialist in a subject, ofte ... sitions. See also: expert testimony save harmless :: v. 1) also called hold harmless, to indemnify (pro ... . See also: hold harmless indemnify exemplary damages :: n. often called punitive damages, these are damage ... See also: damages punitive damages party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent fair comment :: n. a statement of opinion (no matter how ludicrous ... amation libel public figure slander executive order :: n. a President's or Governor's declaration which h ... the Congress or state legislature. scrivener :: n. a person who writes a document for another, usu ... r practicing law without a license. property damage :: n. injury to real or personal property through ano ... l value. See also: damages property paternity suit :: n. a lawsuit, usually by a mother, to prove that a ... d to a prompt and quiet settlement. last will and testament :: n. a fancy and redundant way of saying "will." Law ... writing another one. See also: will last clear chance :: n. a rule of law in determining responsibility for ... contributory negligence negligence extrinsic fraud :: n. fraudulent acts which keep a person from obtain ... it. See also: fraud intrinsic fraud latent defect :: n. a hidden flaw, weakness or imperfection in an a ... warranty product liability warranty partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner abstention doctrine :: n. when the Supreme Court refuses to exercise its ... being appealed from a state court. sanction :: n. 1) a financial penalty imposed by a judge on a ... ction." See also: contempt of court lateral support :: n. the right of a land- owner to assurance that hi ... support problems are less dramatic. execution :: n. 1) the act of getting an officer of the court t ... so: death penalty writ of execution excusable neglect :: n. a legitimate excuse for the failure of a party ... See also: default default judgment false imprisonment :: n. depriving someone of freedom of movement by hol ... for damages. See also: false arrest ex parte :: (ex par-tay, but popularly, ex party) adj. Latin m ... and place of any ex parte hearing. false arrest :: n. physically detaining someone without the legal ... sment. See also: false imprisonment roadside test :: n. a preliminary test law enforcement officers use ... g while intoxicated Miranda warning secondary boycott :: n. an organized refusal to purchase the products o ... state laws and, thus, are illegal. abrogate :: v. to annul or repeal a law or pass legislation th ... ons of a contract. See also: repeal leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection eviction :: n. a generic word for the act of expelling (kickin ... ve eviction lease unlawful detainer ex post facto :: adj. Latin for "after the fact," which refers to l ... ted before the new law was adopted. proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party search and seizure :: n. examination of a person's premises (residence, ... robable cause search search warrant search :: v. 1) to examine another's premises (including a v ... e search and seizure search warrant exclusionary rule :: n. the rule that evidence secured by illegal means ... e poisonous tree motion to suppress search warrant :: n. a written order by a judge which permits a law ... ble cause search search and seizure robbery :: n. 1) the direct taking of property (including mon ... We've been robbed." See also: theft examination :: n. 1) the questioning of a witness by an attorney. ... irect examination testimony witness exception :: n. 1) a formal objection during trial ("We take ex ... cluded. See also: exception in deed patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending lease :: 1) n. a written agreement in which the owner of pr ... triple net lease unlawful detainer severance :: n. 1) a separating by court order, such as separat ... le a potential claim for discharge. directed verdict :: n. a verdict by a jury based on the specific direc ... element judgment jury trial verdict disbar :: v. to remove an attorney from the list of practici ... legal ethics. (See moral turpitude disbarment :: n. the ultimate discipline of an attorney, which i ... ation and/or cure. See also: disbar special verdict :: n. the jury's decisions or findings of fact with t ... utation. See also: specific finding lineup :: n. a law enforcement method used in an attempt to ... entification is precarious at best. privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract 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. lis pendens :: (lease pen-dense) n. Latin for "a suit pending," a ... ob can be penalized by court order. liquidated damages :: n. an amount of money agreed upon by both parties ... airness. See also: contract damages special prosecutor :: n. an attorney from outside of the government sele ... Robert Bork finally discharged Cox. limited partnership :: n. a special type of partnership which is very com ... mited liability partner partnership dismiss :: v. the ruling by a judge that all or a portion (on ... nst that party. See also: dismissal dismissal :: n. 1) the act of voluntarily terminating a crimina ... f the settlement. See also: dismiss paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader speaking demurrer :: n. an attempt to introduce evidence during a heari ... the operation." See also: demurrer disjunctive allegations :: n. the attempt to claim in a civil lawsuit that on ... o: cause of action charge complaint disinherit :: v. to intentionally take actions to guarantee that ... rorem clause pretermitted heir will discovery :: n. the entire efforts of a party to a lawsuit and ... ee also: deposition interrogatories special damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... . See also: damages general damages discrimination :: n. unequal treatment of persons, for a reason whic ... qual rights. See also: civil rights pro hac vice :: : (proh hock vee-chay) prep. Latin for "this time ... association with a local attorney. devolve :: v. when property is automatically transferred from ... ory sovereign rights to run itself. devolution :: n. 1) the transfer of title to real property by th ... nment to another. See also: devolve overt act :: n. in criminal law, an action which might be innoc ... terrorist bombing of that building. 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 adhesion contract :: n.(contract of adhesion) a contract (often a signe ... ourceful lawyer. See also: contract per stirpes :: (purr stir-peas) adj. Latin for "by roots," by rep ... descent and distribution trust will denial :: n. a statement in the defendant's answer to a comp ... ative defense answer general denial demand :: 1) v. to claim as a need, requirement or entitleme ... pay is made. See also: demand note statutory rape :: n. sexual intercourse with a female below the lega ... majority minority molestation rape adjuster :: n. an employee (usually a non-lawyer) of an insura ... e company in approving settlements. demurrer :: n. (dee-muhr-ur) a written response to a complaint ... demurrer. See also: motion pleading state action :: n. in federal Civil Rights Acts, dating back to 18 ... for damages. See also: civil rights own recognizance :: (O.R.) n. the basis for a judge allowing a person ... n recognizance. See also: bail O.R. standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction owner :: n. one who has legal title or right to something. ... ke one a legal owner. See also: own long-arm statute :: n. law which gives a local state court jurisdictio ... rt jurisdiction over the defendant. loiter :: v. to linger or hang around in a public place or b ... kenness or being a public nuisance. nuisance :: n. the unreasonable, unwarranted and/or unlawful u ... evening). See also: public nuisance descent and distribution :: n. the system of laws which determine who will inh ... nt inheritance intestate succession stare decisis :: : (stah-ree duh-sigh-sis) n. Latin for "to stand b ... pellate court lower court precedent derivative action :: n. a lawsuit brought by a corporation shareholder ... on director shareholder stockholder descent :: n. the rules of inheritance established by law in ... on inheritance intestate succession sounds in :: adj. referring to the underlying legal basis for a ... ause of action sounds in contract." disposition :: n. the court's final determination of a lawsuit or ... on of a lawsuit or criminal charge. shareholder :: n. the owner of one or more shares of stock in a c ... : corporation shareholders' meeting actual controversy :: n. a true legal dispute which leads to a genuine l ... al outcome. See also: friendly suit levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution duty :: n. 1) a legal obligation, the breach of which can ... on imports. See also: duty of care procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made. shareholders' derivative action :: n. a lawsuit by a corporation's shareholders, theo ... gement. See also: derivative action dram shop rule :: n. a statute (Dram Shop Act) or case law in 38 sta ... tervening cause, namely, the drunk. Shepardize :: n. a method of locating reports of appeals decisio ... m prior case law. See also: reports sharp practice :: n. actions by a lawyer using misleading statements ... e bar association or by the courts. liability :: n. one of the most significant words in the field ... bility joint tortfeasors negligence actionable :: adj. when enough facts or circumstances exist to m ... ction lawsuit malicious prosecution proceeding :: n. any legal filing, hearing, trial and/or judgmen ... edings," as in "legal proceedings." element :: n. 1) an essential requirement to a cause of actio ... of action crime general plan zoning settlement :: n. the resolution of a lawsuit (or of a legal disp ... ult in settlement. See also: settle settle :: v. to resolve a lawsuit without a final court judg ... rior to trial. See also: settlement process server :: n. a person who serves (delivers) legal papers in ... table. See also: service of process process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons ejusdem generis :: (eh-youse-dem generous) v adj. Latin for "of the s ... t was of land-based transportation. sexual harassment :: n. unwanted sexual approaches (including touching, ... emale employees. See also: nuisance action :: n. a lawsuit in which one party (or parties) sues ... . See also: cause of action lawsuit landlord and tenant :: n. the name for the area of law concerning renting ... ord lease lessee lessor rent tenant sheriff :: n. the top law enforcement officer for a county, u ... ." See also: bailiff sheriff's sale liable :: adj. responsible or obligated. Thus, a person or e ... al prosecution. See also: liability probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will ad litem :: adj. legal Latin meaning "for the purposes of the ... of age. See also: guardian ad litem small claims court :: n. a division of most municipal, city or other low ... od example of a small claims court. slander :: n. oral defamation, in which someone tells one or ... . See also: defamation fair comment lie detector test :: n. a popular name for a polygraph which tests the ... be referred to. See also: polygraph District Attorney (D.A.) :: n. an elected official of a county or a designated ... dent and serve at his/her pleasure. dissent :: n. 1) the opinion of a judge of a court of appeals ... sagreement with prevailing thought. pro tem :: 1) adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporari ... as "Sam Collins is Pro Tem today." distribute :: v. 1) the dividing up of those assets of an estate ... and distribution probate trust will probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure similarly situated :: adj. with the same problems and circumstances, ref ... class action multiplicity of suits DNA :: n. scientifically, deoxyribonucleic acid, a chromo ... is strongly in favor of admission. domicile :: n. the place where a person has his/her permanent ... where its headquarters is located. dominant estate :: n. in real estate law, the property retained when ... See also: easement servient estate shortening time :: n. an order of the court in response to the motion ... e notice is served within 24 hours. dower :: n. an old English common law right of a widow to o ... t and distribution widow's election domestic violence :: n. the continuing crime and problem of the physica ... ravated assault assault and battery show cause order :: n. an order of the court, also called an order to ... hild. See also: order to show cause document :: n. a popular generic word among lawyers for any pa ... it. See also: documentary evidence libel :: 1) n. to publish in print (including pictures), wr ... libel per se public figure slander sidebar :: n. 1) physically, an area in front of or next to t ... See also: approach the bench bench paralegal :: n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiri ... h less than that for the attorneys. prospectus :: n. a detailed statement by a corporation required ... rporation limited partnership stock evidence :: n. every type of proof legally presented at trial ... material object objection relevant recoupment :: n. the right of a defendant in a lawsuit to demand ... ter, including outside the lawsuit. in pari delicto :: adv. (in pah-ree dee-lick-toe) Latin for "in equal ... e proof is that both were involved. joinder :: n. the joining together of several lawsuits or sev ... er misjoinder multiplicity of suits recoverable :: adj. referring to the amount of money to which a p ... ehicle." See also: damages judgment recovery :: n. the amount of money and any other right or prop ... ceived by a plaintiff in a lawsuit. public figure :: n. in the law of defamation (libel and slander), a ... See also: defamation libel slander recuse :: v. to refuse to be a judge (or for a judge to agre ... to the defendant. See also: recusal joint :: adj., adv. referring to property, rights or obliga ... ncy joint venture tenancy in common in forma pauperis :: (in form-ah paw-purr-iss) adj. or adv. Latin for " ... poor defendants who have been sued. 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." irrelevant :: adj. not important, pertinent, or germane to the m ... ce immaterial incompetent objection receivership :: n. the process of appointment by a court of a rece ... n receivership." See also: receiver incompetent :: adj. 1) referring to a person who is not able to m ... n incompetency incompetent evidence incompetent evidence :: n. testimony, documents or things which one side a ... ns. See also: incompetent objection reciprocal discovery :: n. the exchange of documents, lists of witnesses, ... n before trial. See also: discovery reciprocity :: n. mutual exchange of privileges between states, n ... any large states refuse to give it. in re :: prep. short for "in regard to" or concerning. Ofte ... e Adoption of Marcus McGillicuddy." in rem :: adj. from Latin "against or about a thing," referr ... cular person. See also: in personam issue :: 1) n. a person's children or other lineal descenda ... the body incorporation share stock impotence :: n. the male's inability to copulate. Impotence can ... eans inability to produce children. implied warranty :: n. an assumption at law that products are "merchan ... er. See also: caveat emptor implied homicide :: n. the killing of a human being due to the act or ... aughter murder self-defense suicide judge :: 1) n. an official with the authority and responsib ... ice justice of the peace magistrate Jones Act :: n., adj. a federal law which covers injuries to cr ... ." See also: admiralty maritime law hot pursuit :: n. when a law enforcement officer is so close behi ... sh pursuit. See also: fresh pursuit hometowned :: adv. legalese for a lawyer or client suffering dis ... orneys over those from out of town. relief :: n. generic term for all types of benefits which an ... r possibilities. See also: judgment remedy :: n. the means to achieve justice in any matter in w ... gment provisional remedy settlement judgment creditor :: n. the winning plaintiff in a lawsuit to whom the ... 's rights judgment prevailing party remainder :: n. in real property law, the interest in real prop ... ed reversion title vested remainder holdover tenancy :: n. the situation when a tenant of real estate cont ... to a lawsuit for unlawful detainer. rehearing :: n. conducting a hearing again based on the motion ... the judge or agency was just wrong. regulations :: n. rules and administrative codes issued by govern ... es usually have similar procedures. impaneling :: n. the act of selecting a jury from the list of po ... e juror jury panel venire voir dire impeach :: v. 1) to discredit the testimony of a witness by p ... ve been found guilty by the Senate. public domain :: n. 1) in copyright law, the right of anyone to use ... al governments. See also: copyright reentry :: n. taking back possession and going into real prop ... ages. See also: landlord and tenant immunity :: n. exemption from penalties, payments or legal req ... ws. See also: governmental immunity joint tortfeasors :: n. two or more persons whose negligence in a singl ... : comparative negligence negligence inference :: n. a rule of logic applied to evidence in a trial, ... . See also: circumstantial evidence registration statement :: n. a detailed report to be filed with the Securiti ... See also: blue sky laws prospectus immaterial :: adj. a commonly heard objection to introducing evi ... ons. See also: irrelevant objection receiver :: n. 1) a neutral person (often a professional trust ... owing they were obtained illegally. incorporate :: v. 1) to obtain an official charter or articles of ... te by reference incorporation stock intervention :: n. the procedure under which a third party may joi ... rvene joinder multiplicity of suits quotient verdict :: n. an award of money damages set by a jury in a la ... rial motion for a new trial verdict instruction :: n. an explanation of the law governing a case whic ... fore the jury begins deliberations. insufficient evidence :: n. a finding (decision) by a trial judge or an app ... l court. See also: evidence finding intestacy :: n. the condition of having died without a valid wi ... e. See also: intestate probate will rape :: 1) n. the crime of sexual intercourse (with actual ... See also: date rape statutory rape innuendo :: n. from Latin innuere, "to nod toward." In law it ... See also: defamation libel slander intoxication :: n. 1) the condition of being drunk as the result o ... r. See also: vehicular manslaughter insanity :: n. mental illness of such a severe nature that a p ... M'Naughten rule temporary insanity intestate succession :: n. the distribution when a person dies without lea ... sion. See also: intestacy intestate quorum :: n. the number of people required to be present bef ... ly set by statute. See also: bylaws intervene :: v. to obtain the court's permission to enter into ... ntion joinder multiplicity of suits interest :: n. 1) any and all, partial or total right to prope ... nal property real property standing bifurcate :: v. the order or ruling of a judge that one issue i ... is necessary. See also: bifurcation Queen's Bench :: n. 1) the highest court in Great Britain during th ... include close to 50 percent women. interrogation :: n. questioning of a suspect or witness by law enfo ... the poisonous tree Miranda warning circumstantial evidence :: n. evidence in a trial which is not directly from ... circumstantial. See also: evidence qui tam action :: : (kwee tam) n. from Latin for "who as well," a la ... technical violations and/or errors. quiet title action :: n. a lawsuit to establish a party's title to real ... opposition. See also: notice title quiet enjoyment :: n. the right to enjoy and use premises (particular ... damages for it. See also: nuisance interrogatories :: n. a set of written questions to a party to a laws ... ing. See also: deposition discovery innocent :: adj. without guilt (not guilty). Usually the plea ... also: arraignment plea plea bargain rational basis :: n. a test of constitutionality of a statute, askin ... imate and constitutional objective. discharge in bankruptcy :: n. an order given by the bankruptcy judge, at the ... red creditors. See also: bankruptcy reasonable :: adj., adv. in law, just, rational, appropriate, or ... ost of other actions or activities. deliberation :: n. the act of considering, discussing and, hopeful ... ssions, voting and decision-making. indigent :: 1) n. a person so poor and needy that he/she canno ... person who is very poor and needy. quash :: v. to annul or set aside. In law, a motion to quas ... s when the wrong person was served. reasonable speed :: n. the speed of an automobile determined to be low ... e speed limit. See also: negligence publication :: n. 1) anything made public by print (as in a news- ... so: defamation libel notice slander puffing :: n. the exaggeration of the good points of a produc ... seller is possible. See also: fraud invitee :: n. a person who comes onto another's property, pre ... ail employees. See also: negligence putative :: adj. commonly believed, supposed or claimed. Thus ... not the last will of the deceased. indispensable party :: n. a person or entity which must be included in a ... tion to join Olivia as a defendant. infancy :: n. although the popular use of the word means the ... nority. See also: ad litem minority inherit :: v. to receive all or a portion of the estate of an ... intestacy intestate succession will inheritance :: n. whatever one receives upon the death of a relat ... intestacy intestate succession will 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 infringement :: n. 1) a trespassing or illegal entering. 2) in the ... patent plagiarism royalty trademark real party in interest :: n. the person or entity who will benefit from a la ... st is the beneficiary of the trust. real property :: n. 1) all land, structures, firmly attached and in ... onal property real estate reversion information and belief :: n. a phrase often used in legal pleadings (complai ... nswer complaint declaration perjury informed consent :: n. agreement to do something or to allow something ... . See also: consent Miranda warning hold harmless :: n. a promise to pay any costs or claims which may ... e other party agrees to cover them. judgment debtor :: n. the losing defendant in a lawsuit who owes the ... winner. See also: judgment creditor fraudulent conveyance :: n. the transfer (conveyance) of title to real prop ... the conveyance will probably fail. restriction :: n. any limitation on activity, by statute, regulat ... rated into the title of each owner. restraint on alienation :: n. an attempt in a deed or will to prevent the sal ... enant rule against perpetuities use fresh pursuit :: n. immediate chase of a suspected criminal by a la ... hot pursuit. See also: hot pursuit justifiable homicide :: n. a killing without evil or criminal intent, for ... me. See also: homicide self-defense fraud :: n. the intentional use of deceit, a trick or some ... audulent conveyance intrinsic fraud fornication :: n. sexual intercourse between a man and woman who ... obbers, murderers and drug dealers. forum :: n. a court which has jurisdiction to hold a trial ... f a particular lawsuit or petition. forum non conveniens :: (for-uhm nahn cahn-vee-nee-ehns) n. Latin for a fo ... most convenient location for trial. juvenile court :: n. a special court or department of a trial court ... See also: court juvenile delinquent bail bond :: n. a bond provided by an insurance company through ... urned. See also: bail bail bondsman 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. justice :: n. 1) fairness. 2) moral rightness. 3) a scheme or ... e appellate courts. See also: court resisting arrest :: n. the crime of using physical force (no matter ho ... referred to merely as "resisting." residue :: n. in a will, the assets of the estate of a person ... distribution residuary bequest will respondeat superior :: (rehs-pond-dee-at superior) n. Latin for "let the ... : agency agent negligence principal submitted :: n. the conclusion of all evidence and argument in ... , no further argument is permitted. ultimate fact :: n. in a trial, a conclusion of fact which is logic ... is not evidence. See also: evidence fugitive from justice :: n. a person convicted or accused of a crime who hi ... extradition. See also: extradition full faith and credit :: n. the provision in Article IV, Section 1 of the U ... "foreign" (out-of-state) judgment. result :: n. common lawyer lingo for outcome of a lawsuit. ... yer lingo for outcome of a lawsuit. resulting trust :: n. a trust implied by law (as determined by a cour ... See also: constructive trust trust laches :: n. the legal doctrine that a legal right or claim ... , breach of contract, fraud, etc.). labor and materials :: (time and materials) n. what some builders or repa ... track of actual labor hours worked. stay :: n. a court-ordered short-term delay in judicial pr ... r case. See also: stay of execution revenue ruling :: n. a published opinion of the Internal Revenue Ser ... evenue ruling. See also: income tax land :: n. real property, real estate (and all that grows ... See also: real estate real property prosecution :: n. 1) in criminal law, the government attorney cha ... se). See also: prosecute prosecutor file :: 1) v. to deposit with the clerk of the court a wri ... rrespondence and notes on the case. prosecute :: v. 1) in criminal law, to charge a person with a c ... rney General prosecution prosecutor 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 abandonment :: n. the act of intentionally and permanently giving ... : abandon abandoned property patent retroactive :: adj. referring to a court's decision or a statute ... ospective." See also: ex post facto juvenile delinquent :: n. a person who is under age (usually below 18), w ... low as 14. See also: juvenile court foreseeable risk :: n. a danger which a reasonable person should antic ... reseeable. See also: foreseeability forfeit :: v. to lose property or rights involuntarily as a p ... drunk driving. See also: forfeiture forfeiture :: n. loss of property due to a violation of law. See ... violation of law. See also: forfeit forensic testimony :: n. any testimony of expert scientific, engineering ... ee also: forensic forensic medicine retraction :: n. 1) to withdraw any legal document in a lawsuit ... igation. See also: defamation libel foreclosure :: n. the system by which a party who has loaned mone ... ced sale mortgage notice of default kangaroo court :: n. 1) a mock court set up without legal basis, suc ... See also: star chamber proceedings foreign corporation :: n. a corporation which is incorporated under the l ... tate or Whoopee's designated agent. gender bias :: n. unequal treatment in employment opportunity (su ... statutes. See also: discrimination general appearance :: n. an attorney's representation of a client in cou ... case. See also: special appearance replevin :: n. under common law, the right to bring a lawsuit ... se of action" for all civil wrongs. repeal :: 1) v. to annul an existing law, by passage of a re ... n. the act of annulling a statute. provisional remedy :: n. a generic term for any temporary order of a cou ... ing. See also: temporary injunction harassment :: (either harris-meant or huh-rass-meant) n. the act ... See also: harass sexual harassment prove :: v. to present evidence and/or logic that makes a f ... t or criminal case. See also: proof habeas corpus :: (hay-bee-us core-puss) n. Latin for "you have the ... nality of a state court conviction. guardian ad litem :: n. a person appointed by the court only to take le ... awsuit is filed. See also: ad litem reports :: n. the published decisions of appeals courts in al ... ilable in almost all law libraries. guest statute :: n. a state law which sets standards of care by the ... sked to be let out. See also: guest guilty :: adj. having been convicted of a crime or having ad ... on of guilt cop a plea plea bargain proximate cause :: n. a happening which results in an event, particul ... also: intervening cause negligence renunciation :: n. 1) giving up a right, such as a right of inheri ... renunciation is factually too late. law and motion calendar :: n. a court calendar in which only motions and spec ... special legal arguments are heard. judicial foreclosure :: n. a judgment by a court in favor of foreclosure o ... deed of trust foreclosure mortgage highway :: n. any public street, road, turnpike or canal whic ... rivilege and not an absolute right. hit and run :: n. the crime of a driver of a vehicle who is invol ... , and then walks back to the scene. rental value :: n. the amount which would be paid for rental of si ... alimony to be paid. See also: rent heir :: n. one who acquires property upon the death of ano ... y pretermitted heir succession will 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 non sequitur :: : (nahn sek [as in heck]-kwit-her) n. Latin for "i ... w, stated: "That's a non sequitur." Juris Doctor :: (J.D.) n. the law degree granted upon graduation b ... tles a person to a graduate degree. representative :: 1) n. an agent. 2) n. in probate law, a generic te ... of the conditions at the job site." protective custody :: n. the act of law enforcement officials in placing ... ical harm or death if they testify. Good Samaritan rule :: n. from a Biblical story, if a volunteer comes to ... a lawsuit for millions of dollars. rescue doctrine :: n. the rule of law that if a rescuer of a person h ... to the car grill. See also: damages governmental immunity :: n. the doctrine from English common law that no go ... o: Federal Tort Claims Act immunity residence :: n. 1) the place where one makes his/her home. Howe ... f incorporation. See also: resident prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment general damages :: n. monetary recovery (money won) in a lawsuit for ... s exemplary damages special damages general partner :: n. 1) usually one of the owners and operators of a ... ted partnership partner partnership jury trial :: n. a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution in ... the final judgment. See also: jury rescind :: v. to cancel a contract, putting the parties back ... celling party. See also: rescission jury fees :: n. the rather minimal amount paid each day to juro ... ees as a court cost. See also: jury jurisprudence :: n. the entire subject of law, the study of law and ... e study of law and legal questions. gravamen :: n. Latin for "to weigh down," the basic gist of ev ... o: cause of action charge complaint jurisdictional amount :: n. the range between the minimum and maximum amoun ... equirements. See also: jurisdiction jurisdiction :: n. the authority given by law to a court to try ca ... Superior Court Supreme Court venue request :: 1) v. to ask or demand a judge to act (such as iss ... n. the act of asking or demanding. juror :: n. any person who actually serves on a jury. Lists ... : Grand Jury jury jury panel venire jury :: n. one of the remarkable innovations of the Englis ... hallenge sequester venire voir dire grandfather clause :: n. 1) a clause in a statute or zoning ordinance (p ... Such laws are now unconstitutional. res ipsa loquitur :: (rayz ip-sah loh-quit-her) n. Latin for "the thing ... plex doctrine. See also: negligence fighting words :: n. words intentionally directed toward another per ... he basis for a lawsuit for assault. loss :: n. 1) the value placed on injury or damages due to ... t and the income. See also: damages civil calendar :: n. the list of lawsuits (cases) that are approachi ... y sent to trial. See also: calendar civil code :: n. in many states, the name for the collection of ... negligence lawsuits and practices. and :: conj. this little word is important in law, partic ... ds "or," but not if it reads "and." civil liability :: n. potential responsibility for payment of damages ... ans open to punishment for a crime. civil :: adj. 1) that part of the law that encompasses busi ... also: civil liberties civil rights monopoly :: n. a business or inter-related group of businesses ... ust laws license restraint of trade trespass :: n. entering another person's property without perm ... for an illegal purpose is a crime. preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other. moot court :: n. law school exercise in which students argue bot ... fferent law schools. See also: moot preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy transferred intent :: n. in both criminal and tort (civil wrong) law, wh ... hit upon Truehart. See also: intent civil procedure :: n. the complex and often confusing body of rules a ... l civil action civil code civil law clean hands doctrine :: n. a rule of law that a person coming to court wit ... ices. See also: affirmative defense preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information trader :: in U.S. income tax law, a person who deals in prop ... ultation with a C.P.A. or attorney. clerk :: n. 1) an official or employee who handles the busi ... stocking shelves, or counter sales. 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 civil rights :: n. those rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, ... ill of Rights civil civil liberties claim :: 1) v. to make a demand for money, for property, or ... the government, it is lawsuit time. claim against a governmental agency :: n. any time one believes he/she has a right to pay ... orter than other types of lawsuits. precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. answer :: n. in law, a written pleading filed by a defendant ... emurrer general denial verification cease and desist order :: n. an order of a court or government agency to a p ... ing which would damage the ecology. arbitration :: n. a mini-trial, which may be for a lawsuit ready ... tance of the arbitrator's decision. ultra vires :: (uhl-trah veye-rehz) adj. Latin for "beyond powers ... it is issued. See also: corporation multifarious :: adj., adv. reference to a lawsuit in which either ... ed misjoinder. See also: misjoinder caveat emptor :: (kah-vee-ott emptor) Latin for "let the buyer bewa ... See also: consumer protection laws occupy the field :: v. to preempt (monopolize) an area of statutory la ... ertain topics. See also: preemption personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court unclean hands :: n. a legal doctrine which is a defense to a compla ... ough. See also: affirmative defense arguendo :: prep. Latin meaning "for the sake of argument," us ... rs most commonly in appeals briefs. cestui que trust :: n. (properly pronounced ses-tee kay, but lawyers p ... ust's assets. See also: beneficiary appearance :: n. the act of a party or an attorney showing up in ... neral appearance special appearance motion for a summary judgment :: n. a written request for a judgment in the moving ... strict procedures. See also: motion motion for a new trial :: n. a request made by the loser for the case to be ... hstanding the verdict motion N.O.V. practice :: 1) n. custom or habit as shown by repeated action, ... s "she practices law in St. Louis." mortgage :: n. a document in which the owner pledges his/her/i ... losure notice of default trust deed motion for dismissal :: (non-suit) n. application by a defendant in a laws ... otion for nonsuit. See also: motion anticipatory breach :: n. when a party to a contract repudiates (reneges ... perform. See also: breach contract motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike champerty :: n. an agreement between the party suing in a lawsu ... . See also: barratry contingent fee apparent authority :: n. the appearance of being the agent of another (e ... e also: agency ostensible authority close corporation :: n. a corporation which is permitted by state law t ... mily members. See also: corporation trademark :: n. a distinctive design, picture, emblem, logo or ... ing trademark. See also: trade name misfeasance :: n. management of a business, public office or othe ... n of the law. See also: malfeasance comparative negligence :: n. a rule of law applied in accident cases to dete ... utory negligence damages negligence 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 misjoinder :: n. the inclusion of parties (plaintiffs or defenda ... ent transactions. See also: joinder allegation :: n. a statement of claimed fact contained in a comp ... sure of a fact. See also: complaint common counts :: n. claims for debt alleged in a lawsuit (included ... so: cause of action complaint count omission :: n. 1) failure to perform an act agreed to, where t ... of contract negligence reformation delinquent :: 1) adj. not paid in full amount or on time. 2) n. ... the law as in juvenile delinquent. allege :: v. to claim a fact is true, commonly in a complain ... or any claim. See also: allegation compounding a felony :: n. when a person injured by a felony (being shot, ... n most jurisdictions it is a crime. misadventure :: n. a death due to unintentional accident without a ... me. See also: homicide manslaughter Thirty-day notice :: n. a notice by a landlord to a tenant on a month-t ... e also: landlord and tenant service condemnation action :: n. a lawsuit brought by a public agency to acquire ... e also: condemnation eminent domain condition subsequent :: n. 1) in a contract, a happening which terminates ... Dad Fauntleroy. See also: condition theft :: n. the generic term for all crimes in which a pers ... rglary embezzlement larceny robbery condemn :: v. 1) for a public agency to determine that a buil ... condemnation action eminent domain three strikes, you're out :: n. recent (beginning 1994) legislation enacted in ... ich involve small amounts of money. three-day notice :: n. a notice to pay delinquent rent or quit (leave ... nd tenant service unlawful detainer concealed weapon :: n. a weapon, particularly a handgun, which is kept ... ions, arrests or improper activity. concealment :: n. fraudulent failure to reveal information which ... lawsuit for fraud. See also: fraud preliminary injunction :: n. a court order made in the early stages of a law ... ent injunction temporary injunction toll :: v. 1) to delay, suspend or hold off the effect of ... bridge or take passage on a ferry. cohabitation :: n. living together in the same residence, generall ... xual relationships as cohabitation. mitigating circumstances :: n. in criminal law, conditions or happenings which ... ity heat of passion Twinkie defense collateral :: 1) n. property pledged to secure a loan or debt, u ... ral to the Colorado divorce action. collateral attack :: n. a legal action to challenge a ruling in another ... of paternity in the divorce action. codify :: v. to arrange and label a system of laws. ... arrange and label a system of laws. American Bar Association :: n. the largest organization of American lawyers, w ... go, IL 60611; tel.: (312) 988-5522. trade secret :: n. a process, method, plan, formula or other infor ... e invention. See also: patent trade closing argument :: n. the final argument by an attorney on behalf of ... . See also: opening statement trial M'Naughten rule :: n. a traditional "right and wrong" test of legal i ... temporary insanity Twinkie defense code :: n. a collection of written laws gathered together, ... utes or laws. See also: law statute tort claims act :: n. a federal or state act which, under certain con ... . See also: Federal Tort Claims Act tort :: n. from French for "wrong," a civil wrong or wrong ... nce slander trespass wrongful death mistake :: n. 1) an error in comprehending facts, meaning of ... time. See also: contract rescission alter ego :: n. a corporation, organization or other entity set ... See also: pierce the corporate veil 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. alternative pleading :: n. a legal fiction in which a party to a lawsuit o ... t the defendant committed the act). amend :: v. to alter or change by adding, subtracting, or s ... mended pleading statute stipulation amended pleading :: n. a changed written pleading in a lawsuit, includ ... o: amend amended complaint demurrer amended complaint :: n. what results when the party suing (plaintiff or ... cause of action complaint demurrer comity :: n. when one court defers to the jurisdiction of an ... of cases to which comity may apply. case system :: n. the method of studying law generally used in Am ... Langdell and soon became standard. petition :: 1) n. a formal written request to a court for an o ... dent. See also: divorce motion writ plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing widow's election :: n. the choice a widow makes between accepting what ... nt and distribution succession will Attorney General :: n. in each state and the federal government the hi ... izenry. See also: Solicitor General whiplash :: n. a common neck and/or back injury suffered in au ... r damages due to negligent driving. battery :: n. the actual intentional striking of someone, wit ... e also: assault assault and battery will contest :: n. a lawsuit challenging the validity of a will an ... so: in terrorem clause probate will bar examination :: n. the examination given in each state by either t ... n that district. See also: attorney notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice barratry :: n. creating legal business by stirring up disputes ... ent he/she has no legitimate claim. barrister :: n. in the United States a fancy name for a lawyer ... ome barristers. See also: solicitor plead :: v. 1) in civil lawsuits and petitions, to file any ... al conduct. See also: plea pleading attorney :: n. 1) an agent or someone authorized to act for an ... ialize. See also: court reciprocity ward :: n. 1) a person (usually a minor) who has a guardia ... ouncil district. See also: guardian bias :: n. the predisposition of a judge, arbitrator, pros ... ire. See also: hometowned voir dire police powers :: n. from the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, wh ... host of state regulatory statutes. bigamy :: n. the condition of having two wives or two husban ... d to several husbands is polyandry. warrant :: 1) n. an order (writ) of a court which directs a l ... e search and seizure search warrant pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead non-suit :: n. a ruling by the judge in a lawsuit either when ... the defendant. See also: dismissal failure of issue :: n. when someone dies leaving no children or other ... ildren or other direct descendants. findings of fact :: n. See also: finding ... n. See also: finding bar association :: n. an organization of lawyers. There are two types ... oluntary organization of attorneys. bar :: 1) n. collectively all attorneys, as "the bar," wh ... a room, building, or real property. attorney's fee :: n. the payment for legal services. It can take sev ... ees in the particular type of case. bad debt :: n. an uncollectible debt. The problem is to determ ... ust no income on which to be taxed. bad faith :: 1) n. intentional dishonest act by not fulfilling ... ean hands doctrine fraud good faith attorney's advertising :: n. the commercials which appear on television or c ... es to handle high volume practices. breach of the peace :: n. any act which disturbs the public or even one p ... g inappropriately. See also: breach award :: 1) n. the decision of an arbitrator or commissione ... warded $27,000." See also: judgment authorities :: n. 1) previous decisions by courts of appeal which ... also: brief cite decision precedent nugatory :: adj. of no force or effect; invalid. Example: a st ... unconstitutional is a nugatory law. wrongful death :: n. the death of a human being as the result of a w ... ual beneficiaries (family members). age of consent :: n. See also: legal age majority ... n. See also: legal age majority plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner withdrawal :: n. 1) in criminal law, leaving a conspiracy to com ... count. See also: check renunciation bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy wiretap :: n. using an electronic device to listen in on tele ... invasion of privacy probable cause evasion of tax :: n. the intentional attempt to avoid paying taxes t ... rs. See also: estate tax income tax witness :: 1) n. a person who testifies under oath in a trial ... lso: deposition evidence trial will notice to quit :: n. the notice given by a landlord (owner) to a ten ... h-to-month notice unlawful detainer Workers' Compensation Acts :: n. state statutes which establish liability of emp ... rs' compensation insurance company. contract of adhesion :: n. See also: adhesion contract ... n. See also: adhesion contract bait and switch :: n. a dishonest sales practice in which a business ... rants the costs of a separate suit. bill :: n. 1) what is commonly called a "check" by which t ... ions, which is falling into disuse. professional negligence :: n. See also: malpractice ... n. See also: malpractice assault :: 1) v. the threat or attempt to strike another, whe ... ult, including for mental distress. usury :: n. a rate of interest on a debt which is exorbitan ... al Reserve Bank. See also: usurious use :: n. the right to enjoy the benefits of real propert ... ay it is only of academic interest. unreasonable search and seizure :: n. search of an individual or his/her premises (in ... e probable cause search and seizure next friend :: n. a person (often a relative) who voluntarily hel ... filed. See also: guardian ad litem burglary :: n. the crime of breaking and entering into a struc ... le. See also: breaking and entering possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess bulk sales acts :: n. state laws (spelled out in the Uniform Commerci ... g without paying current creditors. object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation arrest warrant :: n. a judge's order to law enforcement officers to ... ommitted a crime. See also: warrant arrest :: v. 1) to take or hold a suspected criminal with le ... anda warning probable cause warrant murder :: n. the killing of a human being by a sane person, ... premeditation second degree murder cartel :: n. 1) an arrangement among supposedly independent ... Colombia. See also: antitrust laws case :: n. short for a cause of action, lawsuit, or the ri ... ny, the court stated the rule as:." arraign :: v. to bring a criminal defendant before the court, ... d. See also: appearance arraignment N.O.V. :: adj. shorthand acronym of Latin for non obstante v ... notwithstanding the verdict verdic natural person :: n. a real human being, as distinguished from a cor ... ated at law as a fictitious person. capricious :: adv., adj. unpredictable and subject to whim, ofte ... a judge is inconsistent or erratic. necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party care :: n. in law, to be attentive, prudent and vigilant. ... she is involved. See also: careless variance :: n. 1) an exception to a zoning ordinance, authoriz ... process." See also: dismissal proof no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. boiler room :: n. a telephone bank operation in which fast-talkin ... and in violation of security laws. void :: adj. referring to a statute, contract, ruling or a ... udgment is void. See also: voidable nominal damages :: n. a small amount of money awarded to a plaintiff ... had been damaged. See also: damages nominal party :: n. a defendant or a plaintiff included in a lawsui ... ed. See also: necessary party party pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement association :: n. any group of people who have joined together fo ... ed, although technically redundant. voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge vigilante :: n. someone who takes the law into his/her own hand ... lester of her child is a vigilante. vicarious liability :: n. sometimes called "imputed liability," attachmen ... r or policeman. See also: liability assignment :: n. the act of transferring an interest in property ... ing with property. See also: assign venue :: n. 1) the proper or most convenient location for t ... ion. See also: forum non conveniens no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence brief :: 1) n. a written legal argument, usually in a forma ... another person. See also: precedent verdict :: n. the decision of a jury after a trial, which mus ... nt quotient verdict special verdict boycott :: n. organized refusal to purchase products or patro ... e laws. See also: secondary boycott vexatious litigation :: n. filing a lawsuit with the knowledge that it has ... lous malicious prosecution sanction nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi. verification :: n. the declaration under oath or upon penalty of p ... ed. See also: answer complaint oath prescription :: n. the method of acquiring an easement upon anothe ... ty. See also: prescriptive easement title report :: n. the written analysis of the status of title to ... lso: abstract title title insurance malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case cost bill :: n. a list of claimed court costs submitted by the ... also: court costs prevailing party corpus juris :: n. the body of the law, meaning a compendium of al ... lanations of the law of that state. master :: n. 1) employer, in the area of law known as "maste ... ter and servant respondeat superior corporation :: n. an organization formed with state governmental ... ation public corporation securities master and servant :: n. the body of law, including statutes and legal d ... lso: employment respondeat superior deceased :: 1) adj. dead. 2) n. the person who has died, as us ... ore genteel word is the "decedent." supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue. count :: n. each separate statement in a complaint which st ... also: cause of action common counts court :: n. 1) the judge, as in "The court rules in favor o ... cost and wait of full court trials. marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors. court costs :: n. fees for expenses that the courts pass on to at ... ee also: cost bill prevailing party advisory opinion :: n. an opinion stated by a judge or a court upon th ... o: actual controversy friendly suit performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance counterclaim :: n. a retaliatory claim by a defendant against a pl ... d. See also: answer cross-complaint affirmative action :: n. the process of a business or governmental agenc ... and state affirmative action laws. counterpart :: n. in the law of contracts, a written paper which ... rent localities. See also: contract corporate opportunity :: n. a business opportunity which becomes known to a ... ative action fiduciary relationship surrender :: v. 1) to turn over possession of real property, ei ... lf up to law enforcement officials. cumis counsel :: n. an attorney employed by a defendant in a lawsui ... fendant be approved by the company. may :: v. a choice to act or not, or a promise of a possi ... sion or regulation. See also: shall decision :: n. judgment, decree or determination of findings o ... (court). See also: decree judgment conversion :: n. a civil wrong (tort) in which one converts anot ... the crime of theft. See also: theft priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). permanent disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts admiralty :: n. concerning activities which occur at sea, inclu ... "proctors." See also: maritime law admission :: n. a statement made by a party to a lawsuit or a c ... mission against interest confession decide :: v. for a judge, arbitrator, court of appeals or ot ... rding to the law as he/she sees it. maxims :: n. a collection of legal truisms which are used as ... e and the ordinary habits of life." material witness :: n. a person who apparently has information about t ... e. See also: material trial witness material :: adj. relevant and significant. In a lawsuit, "mate ... contract is not a material breach. copyright :: 1) n. the exclusive right of the author or creator ... plagiarism public domain trademark suspended sentence :: n. in criminal law, a penalty applied by a judge t ... may be enforced. See also: sentence malpractice :: n. An act or continuing conduct of a professional ... eed. See also: errors and omissions malicious prosecution :: n. filing a lawsuit with the intention of creating ... vor of the victim. See also: malice swear :: v. 1) to declare under oath that one will tell the ... ee also: notary public oath perjury minority :: n. 1) in voting, a side with less than half the vo ... See also: legal age majority minor debt :: n. 1) a sum of money due to another. 2) obligation ... mount owed. See also: common counts substantial performance :: n. in the law of contracts, fulfillment of the obl ... also: contract specific performance substitute in :: v. to take over a case from another lawyer, which ... See also: substitution of attorney Customs Court :: n. a federal court established (1926) to hear appe ... Court of Customs and Patent Appeals adopt :: v. 1) to take on the relationship of parent to chi ... nt in a lawsuit. See also: adoption suit :: n. generic term for any filing of a complaint (or ... "suit in equity." See also: lawsuit marked for identification :: adj. documents or objects presented during a trial ... exhibit lay a foundation objection adoption :: n. the taking of a child into one's family, creati ... the child are met. See also: adopt prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone). custody :: n. 1) holding property under one's control. 2) law ... inor child. See also: child custody curtesy :: n. in old common law, the right of a surviving hus ... ommunity property dower life estate successive sentences :: n. in criminal law, the imposition of the penalty ... uld be 15 years. See also: sentence succession :: n. the statutory rules of inheritance of a dead pe ... istribution." See also: inheritance substitution :: n. putting one person in place of another, in part ... See also: substitution of attorney manslaughter :: n. the unlawful killing of another person without ... laughter. See also: homicide murder cross-examination :: n. the opportunity for the attorney (or an unrepre ... examination testimony trial witness admit :: v. 1) to state something is true in answering a co ... tted." See also: admission evidence principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior crime :: n. a violation of a law in which there is injury t ... drugs. See also: felony misdemeanor creditor's rights :: n. the field of law dealing with the legal means a ... also: creditor debt debtor judgment mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate mandate :: n. 1) any mandatory order or requirement under sta ... See also: mandamus writ of mandate mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder malum prohibitum :: (mal-uhm prohibit-uhm) adj. Latin meaning "wrong d ... lso: malum in se white collar crime ouster :: n. 1) the wrongful dispossession (putting out) of ... ainst his/her expectations or will. adverse possession :: n. a means to acquire title to land through obviou ... o: possession prescriptive easement admission against interest :: n. an admission of the truth of a fact by any pers ... earsay. See also: admission hearsay adverse party :: n. the opposite side in a lawsuit. Sometimes when ... the court rules the will was legal. court-martial :: 1) n. a military court for trying offenses in viol ... the U.S. Court of Military Appeals. de minimis :: adj. (dee-minnie-miss) Latin for "of minimum impor ... deal, a $10 mistake is de minimis. covenants, conditions and restrictions :: n. commonly called "CC and Rs," these are written ... ctive purchaser. See also: covenant prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ damages :: n. the amount of money which a plaintiff (the pers ... liquidated damages special damages marriage :: n. the joining of a male and female in matrimony b ... of time without legal formalities. subrogee :: n. the person or entity that assumes the legal rig ... aid. See also: subrogation subrogor controlled substance :: n. a drug which has been declared by federal or st ... those who have used the substances. declarant :: n. the person making a statement, usually written ... also: affiant affidavit declaration permit :: 1) v. to allow by silence, agreement or giving a l ... f public revenue. See also: license presumption :: n. a rule of law which permits a court to assume a ... resumption at all, but a certainty. consideration :: n. 1) payment or money. 2) a vital element in the ... t of a promise). See also: contract consequential damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... See also: damages foreseeable risk maim :: v. to inflict a serious bodily injury, including m ... to a prison term. See also: mayhem presiding judge :: n. 1) in both state and federal appeals court, the ... and chairs meetings of the judges. consent decree :: n. an order of a judge based upon an agreement, al ... he same. See also: consent judgment stop and frisk :: n. a law enforcement officer's search for a weapon ... h search and seizure search warrant merger :: n. 1) in corporate law, the joining together of tw ... and taking one, and wife the other. merchantable :: adj. a product of a high enough quality to make it ... taminated or flawed. See also: sale constitution :: n. the fundamental, underlying document which esta ... ts common law constitutional rights constitutional rights :: n. rights given or reserved to the people by the U ... e also: Bill of Rights constitution construction :: n. the act of a lawyer or court in interpreting an ... tion. See also: strict construction constable :: n. a law officer for a particular area such as a r ... ice of the Peace. See also: sheriff conspirator :: n. a person or entity who enters into a plot with ... of antitrust laws. (See conspiracy consortium :: n. 1) a group of separate businesses or business p ... oney terms is a difficult question. default judgment :: n. if a defendant in a lawsuit fails to respond to ... See also: complaint default summons mail box rule :: n. in contract law, making a written offer or acce ... nse in hand when the time runs out. conscious parallelism :: n. an undiscussed imitation by a business of a com ... cidence? No, conscious parallelism. confession and avoidance :: n. when a defendant admits the allegations in a co ... tries to avoid their legal impact. prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription confidential relation :: n. a relationship in which one person has confiden ... remely obvious. See also: fiduciary delayed exchange :: n. an exchange of property to put off capital gain ... method and survived an IRS lawsuit. peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire confess :: v. in criminal law, to voluntarily state that one ... Miranda warning self-incrimination deliberate :: 1) adj. (dee-lib-er-et) done with care and intenti ... any group including a legislature. confession :: n. the statement of one charged with a crime that ... Miranda warning self-incrimination confiscate :: v. to take one's goods or property without legal r ... affic. See also: condemnation theft on or about :: prep. a phrase referring to a date or place used i ... reets:." See also: charge complaint defense attorney :: n. 1) the attorney representing the defendant in a ... lso: defendant plaintiff's attorney Magna Carta :: n. Latin for "Great Charter," it was a document de ... s. It is also spelled Magna Charta. defendant :: n. 1) the party sued in a civil lawsuit or the par ... nt. See also: codefendant plaintiff deficiency judgment :: n. a judgment for an amount not covered by the val ... o: foreclosure judicial foreclosure magistrate :: n. 1) a generic term for any judge of a court, or ... ce of the peace preliminary hearing on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred. confusingly similar :: adj. in the law of trademarks, when a trademark, l ... a of the other. See also: trademark mental cruelty :: n. a term, rapidly going out of fashion and out of ... history. See also: cruelty divorce conspiracy :: n. when people work together by agreement to commi ... d conspiracy. See also: conspirator permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction pretermitted heir :: n. the child of a person who has written a will in ... cified $10,000 each. See also: heir permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store. contract :: 1) n. an agreement with specific terms between two ... n oral contract unilateral contract meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion. mechanic's lien :: n. the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, ar ... ll sue for the debt. See also: lien decree :: n. in general, synonymous with judgment. However, ... n's estate, etc. See also: judgment declaratory relief :: n. a judge's determination (called a "declaratory ... ter. See also: declaratory judgment decriminalization :: n. the repeal or amendment of statutes which made ... gh clinics and other legal sources. mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration tax evasion :: n. intentional and fraudulent attempt to escape pa ... o reduce the amount of payable tax. opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified. malice :: n. a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a ... cution murder public figure slander prevailing party :: n. the winner in a lawsuit. Many contracts, leases ... ed before or after trial has begun. tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. default :: 1) n. failure to respond to a summons and complain ... default judgment notice of default defamation :: n. the act of making untrue statements about anoth ... comment libel public figure slander tenancy at will :: n. occupation of real property owned by another un ... right to occupy. See also: tenancy contributory negligence :: n. a doctrine of common law that if a person was i ... : comparative negligence negligence private nuisance :: n. the interference with an individual's peaceful ... See also: nuisance public nuisance agreement :: 1) n. any meeting of the minds, even without legal ... specific terms. See also: contract administrator :: n. the person appointed by the court to handle the ... e also: administer executor probate McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning agreed statement :: n. occasionally the two parties on opposite sides ... gument and not of the actual facts. constructive notice :: n. a fiction that a person got notice even though ... personally. See also: constructive tenancy at sufferance :: n. a "hold-over" tenancy after a lease has expired ... y tenancy at will unlawful detainer quasi community property :: n. in community property states, property acquired ... : community property palimony quasi pro forma :: 1) prep. Latin for "as a matter of form," the phra ... se in annual sales or 6% inflation. privilege against self incrimina-tion :: n. a right to refuse to testify against oneself in ... so: Bill of Rights taking the Fifth privilege :: n. a special benefit, exemption from a duty, or im ... rson, a group or a class of people. plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea per se :: (purr say) adj. Latin for "by itself," meaning inh ... e statement. See also: libel per se private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues. pro rata :: (proh rat-ah or proh ray-tah) adj. from Latin for ... e year in which he/she holds title. private parts :: n. men's or women's genitalia, excluding a woman's ... duction and/or sale of pornography. prior(s) :: n. slang for a criminal defendant's previous recor ... es for the third felony conviction. police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing pledge :: v. to deposit personal property as security for a ... ise to do something. See also: pawn quasi contract :: n. a situation in which there is an obligation as ... fulfilled. See also: contract quasi quantum meruit :: : (kwahn-tuhm mare-ooh-it) n. Latin for "as much a ... uit by implying a contract existed. public use :: n. the only purpose for which private property can ... e also: condemnation eminent domain quasi corporation :: n. a business which has operated as a corporation ... poration de facto corporation quasi privacy :: n. the right to be free of unnecessary public scru ... lso: public figure right to privacy quasi-criminal :: adj. a reference to a court's right to punish for ... defendant. See also: criminal quasi public record :: n. any information, minutes, files, accounts or ot ... l judgment are both public records. public trust doctrine :: n. the principle that the government holds title t ... interest has been dubious at best. plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. private carrier :: n. one who provides transportation or delivery of ... also: common carrier guest statute public property :: n. property owned by the government or one of its ... l public. See also: common property petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order preferred stock :: n. a class of shares of stock in a corporation whi ... on stock corporation dividend stock patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent promotional stock :: n. stock issued in a newly formed corporation and ... assets or money. See also: promoter promoter :: n. a person who puts together a business, particul ... y effort and not by assets or cash. promissory note :: n. a written promise by a person (variously called ... lso: interest obligee obligor usury preferred dividend :: n. a payment of a corporation's profits to holders ... of stock. See also: preferred stock patent ambiguity :: n. an obvious inconsistency in the language of a w ... the language of a written document. prostitute :: n. a person who receives payment for sexual interc ... also: pander panderer prostitution peer :: n. an equal. A "jury of one's peers," to which cri ... eria. See also: jury of one's peers predecease :: v. to die before someone else, as "if my brother, ... estate I give to his son, Eugene." preemptive right :: n. the right of a shareholder in a corporation to ... also: corporation shareholder stock prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate peculation :: n. misappropriation of public (government) funds o ... roperty. See also: misappropriation pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape payment in full :: n. the giving of all funds due to another. This la ... ee accepts the payment as complete. permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards. person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party proprietary rights :: n. those rights which go with ownership of real pr ... hip of real property or a business. personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note property tax :: n. an annual governmental tax on real property or ... are made. See also: ad valorem tax prerogative writ :: n. an historic generic term for any writ (court or ... ls or another court. See also: writ personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty proprietor :: n. the owner of anything, but particularly the own ... siness operated by that individual. prenuptial agreement :: n. also called an antenuptial agreement, a written ... been "taken" by a previous spouse. property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property payment in due course :: n. the giving of funds to the holder of a promisso ... nds. See also: holder in due course prosecutor :: n. generic term for the government's attorney in a ... ee also: Attorney General prosecute payable on demand :: adj. a debt on a promissory note or bill of exchan ... e (party to whom the debt is owed). 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 premises :: n. 1) in real estate, land and the improvements on ... t). See also: real estate structure prostitution :: n. the profession of performing sexual acts for mo ... so: pander panderer pimp prostitute precedent :: 1) n. a prior reported opinion of an appeals court ... to perform. See also: stare decisis per diem :: adj. or n. Latin for "per day," it is short for pa ... or fees of an employee or an agent. primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. public charge :: n. a general term for an indigent, sick or severel ... be taken care of at public expense. per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author. public benefit corporation :: n. a term used in some states for a nonprofit comm ... ts and Lions. See also: corporation picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. public administrator :: n. a county official with the responsibility to ha ... ian is available. See also: probate probative value :: n. evidence which is sufficiently useful to prove ... prior actions. See also: probative possess :: v. to own, have title to, occupy, physically hold ... ng the estate. See also: possession pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution pink slip :: n. 1) slang for official automobile registration c ... being fired or laid off from a job. public nuisance :: n. a nuisance which affects numerous members of th ... y the neighbors. See also: nuisance public easement :: n. the right of the general public to use certain ... lso: easement prescriptive easement pilferage :: n. a crime of theft of little things, usually from ... ipments or baggage. See also: theft probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege public defender :: n. an elected or appointed public official (usuall ... to convicted indigents for appeals. possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail. penitentiary :: n. a state or federal prison in which convicts are ... mission of major crimes (felonies). per :: prep. from Latin for "by means of" or simply, "by" ... (by day) or "per capita" (by head). per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood. protest :: 1) v. to complain in some public way about any act ... dishonored (not paid by the bank). price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury perform :: v. 1) to fulfill one's obligations under a contrac ... court order. See also: performance post mortem :: n. Latin for "after death," an examination of a de ... alled an autopsy. See also: coroner physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege public :: 1) n. the people of the nation, state, county, dis ... lands and public and private roads. postdated check :: n. a check delivered now with a written date in th ... livery of a bad check was criminal. pour over will :: n. a will of a person who has already executed a t ... invalid trust. See also: trust will proxy :: n. 1) someone who is authorized to serve in one's ... d members and convention delegates. prudent man rule :: n. the requirement that a trustee, investment mana ... (1994). See also: fiduciary trustee posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. session :: n. 1) a meeting (or "sitting") of a court for a pa ... pring Term" or the "October Term"). unified estate and gift tax :: n. in federal estate taxes, the value of the estat ... turn. See also: estate tax gift tax undue influence :: n. the amount of pressure which one uses to force ... ounder. See also: will will contest undivided interest :: n. title to real property held by two or more pers ... y by the entirety tenancy in common undisclosed principal :: n. a person who uses an agent for his/her negotiat ... dispute. See also: agent principal Uniform Commercial Code :: n. a set of statutes governing the conduct of busi ... s except Louisiana. See also: UCC-1 unilateral contract :: n. an agreement to pay in exchange for performance ... consideration contract performance vacate :: v. 1) for a judge to set aside or annul an order o ... of real estate and cease occupancy. uxor :: n. Latin for "wife." In deeds and documents the te ... man and not worthy of being named. unissued stock :: n. a corporation's shares of stock which are autho ... poration share stock treasury stock uninsured motorist clause :: n. the clause in a policy of insurance on an autom ... l pay its insured's actual damages. underwriter :: n. a company or person which/who underwrites an in ... ss or project. See also: underwrite underwrite :: v. 1) to agree to pay an obligation which may aris ... antee guarantor insurer underwriter turn states' evidence :: v. for a person accused of a crime to decide to gi ... recommendation of a light sentence. trustor :: n. the creator of a trust (who normally places the ... ern states. See also: settlor trust trustee in bankruptcy :: n. a person appointed by a bankruptcy court to sup ... f the debtors. See also: bankruptcy trustee :: n. a person or entity who holds the assets (corpus ... es. See also: settlor trust trustor Twinkie defense :: n. a claim by a criminal defendant that at the tim ... rder. See also: diminished capacity UCC-1 :: n. a financing agreement form for using personal p ... (UCC) adopted in almost all states. under the influence :: n. one of many phrases for being drunk on alcoholi ... See also: driving while intoxicated unconstitutional :: adj. referring to a statute, governmental conduct, ... ee also: constitution Supreme Court unconscionable :: adj. referring to a contract or bargain which is s ... ee also: adhesion contract contract ultrahazardous activity :: n. an action or process which is so inherently dan ... sional auto race on public streets. vagrancy :: n. moving about without a means to support oneself ... ue of "loitering." See also: loiter valuable consideration :: n. a necessary element of a contract, which confer ... t. See also: consideration contract watered stock :: n. shares of stock of a corporation which have bee ... . See also: corporation share stock waste :: n. 1) any damage to real property by a tenant whic ... ch may include poisonous effluents. warranty :: n. a written statement of good quality of merchand ... of the contract. See also: warrant wanton :: adj. 1) grossly negligent to the extent of being r ... sexually immoral and unrestrained. wet reckless :: n. a plea to a charge of reckless driving which wa ... conviction. See also: plea bargain white collar crime :: n. a generic term for crimes involving commercial ... committed by "blue collar" workers. winding up :: n. liquidating the assets of a corporation or part ... ration cy pres doctrine partnership wind up :: v. to liquidate (sell or dispose of) assets of a c ... r partnership. See also: winding up will :: n. a written document which leaves the estate of t ... will and testament probate testator widow :: n. a woman whose husband died while she was marrie ... nefits traceable to the ex-husband. waiver :: n. the intentional and voluntary giving up of some ... ssed on the record. See also: waive waive :: v. to voluntarily give up something, including not ... the other state). See also: waiver vested :: adj. referring to having an absolute right or titl ... ed. See also: vest vested remainder vendor :: n. a seller, particularly of real property. ... ler, particularly of real property. vendee :: n. a buyer, particularly of real property. ... yer, particularly of real property. vehicular manslaughter :: n. the crime of causing the death of a human being ... gence manslaughter reckless driving vested remainder :: n. the absolute right to receive title after a pre ... pass to him. See also: vest vested viz :: prep. to wit, or namely. Example: "There were seve ... d broken windows." See also: to wit voting trust :: n. a trust which solicits vote proxies of sharehol ... ation proxy shareholder stockholder voidable :: adj. capable of being made void. Example: a contra ... ot necessarily void. See also: void void for vagueness :: adj. referring to a statute defining a crime which ... o the states by the 14th Amendment. trust fund :: n. the principal (called the corpus) of a trust, m ... ccumulated profits. See also: trust trust deed :: n. another name for a deed of trust, a form of mor ... paid back. See also: deed of trust testatrix :: n. female form of testator, although distinguishin ... out of fashion. See also: testator testator :: n. a person who has written a will which is in eff ... me of his/her death. See also: will testamentary trust :: n. a trust created by the terms of a will. Example ... vivos trust living trust trust will testamentary disposition :: n. how the terms of a will divide the testator's ( ... named beneficiaries. See also: will testify :: v. to give oral evidence under oath in answer to q ... deposition evidence testimony trial testimony :: n. oral evidence given under oath by a witness in ... tion evidence testify trial witness time served :: n. the period a criminal defendant has been in jai ... o the defendant. See also: sentence tide lands :: n. land between the high and low tides, which is u ... ch fronts on the sea at that point. third-party beneficiary :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract but h ... tract as a third-party beneficiary. third party :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract or a ... beneficiary third-party beneficiary testamentary capacity :: n. having the mental competency to execute a will ... lso: competent undue influence will term :: n. 1) in contracts or leases, a period of time, su ... nancy" is one term for "occupancy." tenancy :: n. the right to occupy real property permanently, ... rety tenancy in common tenant title temporary insanity :: n. in a criminal prosecution, a defense by the acc ... diminished capacity insanity intent tax sale :: n. an auction sale of a taxpayer's property conduc ... government to collect unpaid taxes. tax return :: n. the form to be filed with a taxing authority by ... able to the taxpayer. See also: tax tenancy by the entirety :: n. joint ownership of title by husband and wife, i ... ee also: community property tenancy tenancy in common :: n. title to property (usually real property, but i ... on. See also: joint tenancy tenancy tenure :: n. 1) in real property, the right to possess the p ... e a probationary period has passed. tentative trust :: n. a bank account deposited in the name of the dep ... hdrawn at any time. See also: trust tender :: 1) v. to present to another person an unconditiona ... he tender. See also: delivery offer timely :: adj. within the time required by statute, court ru ... ed on the 61st day is not "timely." title :: n. 1) ownership of real property or personal prope ... ink slip real property title search treaty :: n. a pact between nations which, if entered into b ... ation and not enforceable treaties. treasury stock :: n. stock of a private corporation which was issued ... be entitled. See also: share stock treasury note :: n. a promissory note issued by the U.S. Treasury, ... e also: treasury bill treasury bond treasury bill :: n. a promissory note issued in multiples of $10,00 ... e also: treasury bond treasury note treble damages :: n. tripling damages allowed by state statute in ce ... damage penalties. See also: damages trial court :: n. the court which holds the original trial, as di ... a court of appeals. See also: trial trust :: n. an entity created to hold assets for the benefi ... testamentary trust trustee trustor true bill :: n. the written decision of a Grand Jury (signed by ... to the court. See also: indictment triple net lease :: n. a lease in which the lessee's (tenant's) rent i ... ers and malls. See also: lease rent trial de novo :: n. a form of appeal in which the appeals court hol ... from small claims court judgments. treason :: n. the crime of betraying one's country, defined i ... nment. See also: espionage sedition transfer agent :: n. a person or company retained by a corporation t ... stockbroker. See also: share stock tontine :: n. a rare agreement among several persons who agre ... e the remaining assets and profits. title search :: n. the examination of county records for the prope ... e escrow lien title title insurance title insurance :: n. a policy issued by an insurance company guarant ... : chain of title title title search title abstract :: n. a history of the chain of title. See also: abst ... chain of title. See also: abstract trade :: 1) n. a business or occupation for profit, particu ... rade fixture trade secret trademark trade fixture :: n. a piece of equipment on or attached to the real ... uch damage. See also: fixture trade transfer :: n. 1) the movement of property from one person or ... son or shipment to continue travel. transcript :: n. the written record of all proceedings, includin ... unless transcription is requested. trade name :: n. a name of a business or one of its products whi ... t is different. See also: trademark witness stand :: n. a chair at the end of the judge's bench on the ... estimony clearly. See also: witness Workmen's Compensation :: n. a former name for worker's compensation before ... isex title of the acts was adopted. petit jury :: n. old-fashioned name for the jury sitting to hear ... r duties. See also: Grand Jury jury pendente lite :: (pen-den-tay lee-tay) adj. Latin for awaiting the ... enforced until the lawsuit is over. pendent jurisdiction :: n. in federal procedure, the policy that allows a ... n. (It also may be spelled: pendant penal :: adj. referring to criminality, as in defining "pen ... ntiary confining convicted felons). plaintiff's attorney :: n. the attorney who represents a plaintiff (the su ... ee also: defense attorney plaintiff prima facie case :: n. a plaintiff's lawsuit or a criminal charge whic ... en and shut." See also: prima facie probative :: adj. in evidence law, tending to prove something. ... so: probative facts probative value pro se :: (proh say) prep. Latin for "for himself." A party ... o se." See also: in propria persona pro per :: adj. short for "propria persona," which is Latin f ... in propria persona propria persona pro bono :: adj. short for pro bono publico, Latin for "for th ... cation organizations and charities. patent defect :: n. an obvious flaw in a product or a document (suc ... he property description in a deed). new matter :: n. newly claimed facts or legal issues raised (bro ... ee also: affirmative defense answer legal services :: n. the work performed by a lawyer for a client. ... performed by a lawyer for a client. legal action :: n. any lawsuit, petition or prosecution. ... y lawsuit, petition or prosecution. K :: n. the shorthand symbol for "contract" used almost ... rsally by lawyers and law students. judgment :: n. the final decision by a court in a lawsuit, cri ... ous with judgment. See also: decree litigant :: n. any party to a lawsuit. This means plaintiff, d ... ant, but not a witness or attorney. litigation :: n. any lawsuit or other resort to the courts to de ... termine a legal question or matter. movant :: n. the party in a lawsuit or other legal proceedin ... or judgment). See also: motion move mouthpiece :: n. old-fashioned slang for one's lawyer. ... d-fashioned slang for one's lawyer. mediator :: n. a person who conducts mediation. A mediator is ... o: arbitration arbitrator mediation long cause :: n. a lawsuit in which it is estimated that a trial ... dar call court calendar short cause probative facts :: n. evidence which tends to prove something which i ... See also: probative probative value proctor :: n. 1) in admiralty (maritime) law, an attorney. 2) ... ttorney. 2) person who keeps order. special :: adj. referring to a particular purpose, person or ... rator, master, orders and so forth. short cause :: n. a lawsuit which is estimated by the parties (us ... l be reset later as a "long cause." set aside :: v. to annul or negate a court order or judgment by ... "set aside" the original dismissal. self-executing :: adj. immediately effective without further action, ... party the right to try to collect. speculative damages :: n. possible financial loss or expenses claimed by ... future customers. See also: damages statute :: n. a federal or state written law enacted by the C ... and proclamations are not statutes. usurious :: adj. referring to the interest on a debt which exc ... ate allowed by law. See also: usury unjust enrichment :: n. a benefit by chance, mistake or another's misfo ... perty. See also: constructive trust unfair competition :: n. wrongful and/or fraudulent business methods to ... ctices tend to harm one's business. sustain :: v. in trial practice, for a judge to agree that an ... /she will "overrule" the objection. scienter :: n. Latin for "having knowledge." In criminal law, ... ents were lies and thus fraudulent. ripe :: adj. in constitutional law, referring to a law cas ... or more issues raised by the case. quit :: v. to leave, used in a written notice to a tenant ... o: notice to quit unlawful detainer query :: n. common lawyer lingo for a question to be answer ... ingo for a question to be answered. punitive damages :: n. (synony- mous with exemplary damages), damages ... t acts. See also: exemplary damages public utility :: n. any organization which provides services to the ... nder state laws. See also: monopoly Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) statue :: n. a federal law which makes it a crime for organi ... s to operate legitimate businesses. recover :: v. to receive a money judgment in a lawsuit. ... eive a money judgment in a lawsuit. retainer :: n. the advance payment to an attorney for services ... e stuck with extensive unpaid fees. respondent :: n. 1) the party who is required to answer a petiti ... "appellant") in the appeals court. res :: (rayz)n. Latin, "thing." In law lingo res is used ... other Latin words as "thing that." joint liability :: n. when two or more persons are both responsible f ... See also: joinder joint and several John Doe :: n. 1) a fictitious name used for a possible male d ... lso: fictitious defendants Jane Doe chancery :: n. a court that can order acts performed. Today ch ... ts in most states. See also: equity chancellor :: n. from the old English legal system, a chancellor ... n the same courts. See also: equity caveat :: n. (kah-vee-ott) from Latin caveat for "let him be ... t, "I just want to warn you that:." appurtenant :: adj. pertaining to something that attaches. In rea ... t. See also: easement real property civil action :: n. any lawsuit relating to civil matters and not c ... inal prosecution. See also: lawsuit civil liberties :: n. rights or freedoms given to the people by the F ... nment. See also: civil civil rights complainant :: n. a person or entity who begins a lawsuit by fili ... lso: complaint petitioner plaintiff commitment :: n. a judge's order sending someone to jail or pris ... prisoner or patient to such places. collusive action :: n. a lawsuit brought by parties pretending to be a ... ion collusion controversy precedent codefendant :: n. when more than one person or entity is sued in ... party sued is called a codefendant. ancillary jurisdiction :: n. a term used in federal courts when the court de ... ine. See also: pendent jurisdiction aid and abet :: v. help commit a crime. A lawyer redundancy since ... be paid by the word. See also: abet zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |