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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 2050 duty of care :: n. a requirement that a person act toward others a ... e also: negligence standard of care due care :: n. the conduct that a reasonable man or woman will ... "reasonable" man or woman would do. reasonable care :: n. the degree of caution and concern for the safet ... . See also: duty of care negligence negligence :: n. failure to exercise the care toward others whic ... gence per se res ipsa loquitur tort careless :: adj., adv. 1) negligent. 2) the opposite of carefu ... See also: care negligence negligent care :: n. in law, to be attentive, prudent and vigilant. ... she is involved. See also: careless gross negligence :: n. carelessness which is in reckless disregard for ... damages negligence punitive damages loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages loss of bargain :: n. the inability to complete a sale or other busin ... ned in a lawsuit. See also: damages implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied possibility of a reverter :: n. the potential that the title to a real property ... further issue. See also: reversion guest statute :: n. a state law which sets standards of care by the ... sked to be let out. See also: guest negligence per se :: (purr say) n. negligence due to the violation of a ... riving. See also: negligence per se statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll professional negligence :: n. See also: malpractice ... n. See also: malpractice acceptance of service :: n. agreement by a defendant (or his/her attorney) ... o accept service. See also: service right of way :: n. 1) a pathway or road with a specific descriptio ... s easement egress floating easement professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation malpractice :: n. An act or continuing conduct of a professional ... eed. See also: errors and omissions mitigation of damages :: n. the requirement that someone injured by another ... he lease) to mitigate his/her loss. assumption of risk :: n. 1) taking a chance in a potentially dangerous s ... d be damaged or prove unprofitable. contributory negligence :: n. a doctrine of common law that if a person was i ... : comparative negligence negligence breach of trust :: n. 1) any act which is in violation of the duties ... ise or confidence. See also: breach comparative negligence :: n. a rule of law applied in accident cases to dete ... utory negligence damages negligence cause of action :: n. the basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds ... property. See also: element lawsuit trier of fact :: n. the judge or jury responsible for deciding fact ... r referee may be the trier of fact. justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. tools of trade :: n. in bankruptcy law, the equipment a person requi ... pay creditors. See also: bankruptcy offender :: n. an accused defendant in a criminal case or one ... crime. See also: accused defendant certificate of title :: n. generally, the title document for a motor vehic ... a "pink slip." See also: pink slip words of art :: n. 1) specialized language with meaning peculiar t ... cialize in a particular occupation. certificate of incorporation :: n. document which some states issue to prove a cor ... the articles are sufficient proof. certificate of deposit (CD) :: n. a document issued by a bank in return for a dep ... D before the pledged time runs out. off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice burden of proof :: n. the requirement that the plaintiff (the party b ... ence prima facie weight of evidence act of God :: n. a natural catastrophe which no one can prevent ... atural event. God knows the answer! capital offense :: n. any criminal charge which is punishable by the ... . See also: bail capital punishment gift in contemplation of death :: n. (called a gift causa mortis by lawyers showing ... ift tax unified estate and gift tax of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline. obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime. jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury abuse of process :: n. the use of legal process by illegal, malicious, ... ly correct the error and apologize. abstract of title :: n. the written report on a title search which show ... e also: chain of title title report officer :: n. 1) a high-level management official of a corpor ... deputy sheriff or federal marshal. officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge offeror :: n. a person or entity who makes a specific proposa ... t. See also: contract offer offeree change of circumstances :: n. the principal reason for a court modifying (ame ... ild support divorce spousal support fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning official :: 1) adj. referring to an act, document or anything ... tion or business. See also: officer official misconduct :: n. improper and/or illegal acts by a public offici ... ty. See also: color of law official sex offender :: n. generic term for all persons convicted of crime ... pornography rape sexual harassment offshore corporation :: n. a corporation chartered under the laws of a cou ... nds in accounts out of the country. offset :: 1) n. also called a "setoff," the deduction by a d ... e also: counterclaim defense setoff officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule shifting the burden of proof :: n. the result of the plaintiff in a lawsuit meetin ... o: burden of proof prima facie case frustration of purpose :: n. sometimes called commercial frustration, when u ... n. See also: commercial frustration writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract offense :: n. a crime or punishable violation of law of any t ... type or magnitude. See also: crime abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien writ of coram nobis :: : (writ of core-uhm noh-bis) n. from Latin for "in ... ment if known at the time of trial. writ of execution :: n. a court order to a sheriff to enforce a judgmen ... ing plaintiff). See also: execution offeree :: n. a person or entity to whom an offer to enter in ... t is made by another (the offeror). chain of title :: n. the succession of title ownership to real prope ... title conveyance foreclosure title youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony abuse of discretion :: n. a polite way of saying a trial judge has made s ... partner's realistic ability to pay. not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity muniment of title :: n. documentary evidence of title to real property. ... also: deed quiet title action title substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in alienation of affections :: n. convincing a wife to leave her husband, often f ... een abolished in almost all states. multiplicity of suits :: n. several actual or potential lawsuits which shou ... e can order the cases consolidated. articles of incorporation :: n. the basic charter of a corporation which spells ... year's taxes. See also: corporation benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault. next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution joinder of issue :: n. that point in a lawsuit when the defendant has ... matters are to be decided by trial. subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury admission of evidence :: n. a judge's acceptance of evidence in a trial. Se ... ence in a trial. See also: evidence admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed. 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. agent for acceptance of service :: n. states require that a corporation name an actua ... corporations. See also: corporation loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony Bachelor of Laws :: n. the degree in law from a law school, abbreviate ... troactively. See also: Juris Doctor summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract bill of attainder :: n. a legislative act which declares a named person ... e I, Section 9 of the Constitution. articles of impeachment :: n. the charges brought (filed) to impeach a public ... y the Senate. See also: impeachment head of household :: n. 1) in federal income tax law, the person filing ... n or daughter. 3) "head of family." breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. indictable offense :: n. a crime (offense) for which a Grand Jury rules ... o commit them. See also: indictment four corners of an instrument :: n. the term for studying an entire document to und ... solve an ambiguity in its language. breach of promise :: n. historically, the dumping of a female fiancee b ... d no longer exist. See also: breach breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. non-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine heat of passion :: n. in a criminal case, when the accused was in an ... oing. See also: manslaughter murder lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain Bill of Rights :: n. the first ten amendments to the federal Constit ... ved to the states or to the people. bill of particulars :: n. a written itemization of claims which a defenda ... the factual bases for the charges. bill of lading :: n. a receipt obtained by the shipper of goods from ... ll of lading, there is no delivery. bill of exchange :: n. a writing by a party (maker or drawer) ordering ... awn on a bank account is a "check." letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate bill of sale :: n. a written statement attesting to the transfer ( ... ther provisions. See also: contract board of directors :: n. the policy managers of a corporation or organiz ... he expertise. See also: corporation time is of the essence :: n. a phrase often used in contracts which in effec ... g the agreement. See also: contract heirs of the body :: n. descendants of one's bloodline, such as childre ... nal owner. See also: heir reversion letter of credit :: n. a document issued by a bank guaranteeing to pro ... ong-distance business transactions. state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident intoxication :: n. 1) the condition of being drunk as the result o ... r. See also: vehicular manslaughter liability :: n. one of the most significant words in the field ... bility joint tortfeasors negligence court of law :: n. any tribunal within a judicial system. Under En ... aw. See also: chancery court equity court of equity :: n. originally in English common law and in several ... also: chancery court of law equity Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark legal duty :: n. the responsibility to others to act according t ... al injuries. See also: duty of care registry of deeds :: n. the records of land title documents kept by the ... mployee to locate. See also: record crime of passion :: n. a defendant's excuse for committing a crime due ... dant. See also: manslaughter murder power of acceptance :: n. the ability to accept an offer and thus create ... ecide to accept the original offer. possession of stolen goods :: n. the crime of possession of goods which one know ... e legal owner. See also: possession last clear chance :: n. a rule of law in determining responsibility for ... contributory negligence negligence court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies"). peer review :: n. an examination and evaluation of the performanc ... claiming damages due to negligence. equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law equity of redemption :: n. the right of a mortgagor (person owing on a loa ... so: foreclosure mortgage redemption contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction passenger :: n. a rider who has paid a fare on a train, bus, ai ... also: common carrier guest statute entry of judgment :: n. the placement of a judgment on the official rol ... on the official roll of judgments. course of employment :: adj. actively involved in a person's employment at ... Acts. See also: scope of employment counter offer :: n. an offer made in response to a previous offer b ... it expire. See also: contract offer omission :: n. 1) failure to perform an act agreed to, where t ... of contract negligence reformation invitee :: n. a person who comes onto another's property, pre ... ail employees. See also: negligence power of appointment :: n. the right to leave property by will, transfer, ... death of the person with the power. question of fact :: n. in a lawsuit or criminal prosecution, an issue ... also: finding judge question of law diligence :: n. reasonable care or attention to a matter, which ... erver's attempt to locate someone). question of law :: n. an issue arising in a lawsuit or criminal prose ... udge question of fact trier of fact deed of trust :: n. a document which pledges real property to secur ... : foreclosure mortgage reconveyance dissolution of corporation :: n. termination of a corporation, either a) volunta ... e government. See also: corporation degree of kinship :: n. the level of relationship between two persons r ... there is no will. See also: descent attractive nuisance doctrine :: n. a legal doctrine which makes a person negligent ... ch make negligence harder to prove. proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence proffer :: v. to offer evidence in a trial. ... v. to offer evidence in a trial. contingent fee :: n. a fee to a lawyer which will be due and payable ... epend on the outcome are unethical. duty :: n. 1) a legal obligation, the breach of which can ... on imports. See also: duty of care diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000. preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights. election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented. power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. Good Samaritan rule :: n. from a Biblical story, if a volunteer comes to ... a lawsuit for millions of dollars. presumption of innocence :: n. a fundamental protection for a person accused o ... yond a reasonable doubt presumption principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. declaration of trust :: n. the document signed by a trustor (settlor) crea ... also: settlor trust trustee trustor declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration contemplation of death :: n. the anticipation of death in a relatively short ... e also: unified estate and gift tax cost of completion :: n. the amount of money (damages) required to compl ... d on percentage of work to be done. transfer in contemplation of death :: n. giving property under the belief of the giver t ... lso: gift in contemplation of death ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. ex officio :: a (ex oh-fish-ee-oh)dj. Latin for "from the office ... ne is president of the corporation. wrongful death :: n. the death of a human being as the result of a w ... ual beneficiaries (family members). satisfaction of mortgage :: n. a document signed by a lender acknowledging tha ... id off the debt. See also: mortgage conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment failure of consideration :: n. not delivering goods or services when promised ... n. See also: consideration contract satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment scope of employment :: n. actions of an employee which further the busine ... ter and servant respondeat superior sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny. color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title." Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states. color of law :: n. the appearance of an act being performed based ... xtort payoffs to forget the ticket. firm offer :: n. in contract law, an offer (usually in writing) ... ptance contract counter offer offer commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule reckless :: adj. in both negligence and criminal cases, carele ... so: careless negligent wet reckless setoff :: (offset) n. a claim by a defendant in a lawsuit th ... ee also: affirmative defense offset conflict of interest :: n. a situation in which a person has a duty to mor ... a position adverse to the customer. conflict of law :: n. a situation in which both state and federal law ... y arose. See also: forum preemption Restatement of the Law :: n. a series of detailed statements of the basic la ... tracts, property, torts and trusts. fact finder (finder of fact) :: n. in a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution ... n facts. See also: question of fact service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant. party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. risk of loss :: n. the responsibility a carrier, borrower or user ... e is damage or loss. See also: risk restraint of trade :: n. in antitrust law, any activity (including agree ... also: antitrust laws monopoly trust peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate party of the second part :: n. a reference to a party to a written contract, a ... " See also: party of the first part operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. return of service :: n. written confirmation under oath by a process se ... ee also: service service of process metes and bounds :: (meets and bounds) n. a surveyor's description of ... of a parcel or lot are first drawn. appraiser :: n. a professional who makes appraisals of the valu ... isal Institute). See also: appraise misappropriation :: n. the intentional, illegal use of the property or ... mbezzlement fiduciary larceny theft ostensible agent :: n. a person who has been given the appearance of b ... rent authority ostensible authority arraignment :: n. the hearing in which a person charged with a cr ... re taken care of. See also: arraign may :: v. a choice to act or not, or a promise of a possi ... sion or regulation. See also: shall misfeasance :: n. management of a business, public office or othe ... n of the law. See also: malfeasance public charge :: n. a general term for an indigent, sick or severel ... be taken care of at public expense. service :: n. 1) paid work by another person, either by contr ... ersonal services service of process prudent man rule :: n. the requirement that a trustee, investment mana ... (1994). See also: fiduciary trustee deliberate :: 1) adj. (dee-lib-er-et) done with care and intenti ... any group including a legislature. answer :: n. in law, a written pleading filed by a defendant ... emurrer general denial verification battery :: n. the actual intentional striking of someone, wit ... e also: assault assault and battery sine qua non :: (see-nay kwah nahn) prep. Latin for "without which ... qua non of the injury to Playmate. compromise verdict :: n. a decision made by a jury in which the jurors s ... ning the verdict. See also: verdict complaint :: n. the first document filed with the court (actual ... g prayer service of process summons save harmless :: v. 1) also called hold harmless, to indemnify (pro ... . See also: hold harmless indemnify on or about :: prep. a phrase referring to a date or place used i ... reets:." See also: charge complaint conservatee :: n. a person whom a court has determined because of ... and the like. See also: conservator guardian :: n. a person who has been appointed by a judge to t ... torship. See also: conservator ward reserve fund :: n. a fund of money created to take care of mainten ... associations maintain such a fund. conservator :: n. a guardian and protector appointed by a judge t ... ies. See also: conservatee guardian bias :: n. the predisposition of a judge, arbitrator, pros ... ire. See also: hometowned voir dire cross-complaint :: n. after a complaint has been filed against a defe ... g prayer service of process summons bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning audit :: n. an examination by a trained accountant of the f ... rmation provided. See also: auditor in loco parentis :: prep. (in loh-coh pah-rent-iss) Latin for "instead ... 5, if and when he needs legal help. parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward reasonable :: adj., adv. in law, just, rational, appropriate, or ... ost of other actions or activities. cross-examination :: n. the opportunity for the attorney (or an unrepre ... examination testimony trial witness elder law :: n. a specialty in legal practice, covering estate ... t field. (definition revised: 9/02) commingling :: n. the act of mixing the funds belonging to one pa ... rust accounts for funds of another. palimony :: n. a substitute for alimony in cases in which the ... the relationship. See also: alimony bigamy :: n. the condition of having two wives or two husban ... d to several husbands is polyandry. reasonable speed :: n. the speed of an automobile determined to be low ... e speed limit. See also: negligence law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law res ipsa loquitur :: (rayz ip-sah loh-quit-her) n. Latin for "the thing ... plex doctrine. See also: negligence rescue doctrine :: n. the rule of law that if a rescuer of a person h ... to the car grill. See also: damages real property :: n. 1) all land, structures, firmly attached and in ... onal property real estate reversion proximate cause :: n. a happening which results in an event, particul ... also: intervening cause negligence ward :: n. 1) a person (usually a minor) who has a guardia ... ouncil district. See also: guardian privileged communication :: n. statements and conversations made under circums ... See also: attorney-client privilege property damage :: n. injury to real or personal property through ano ... l value. See also: damages property respondeat superior :: (rehs-pond-dee-at superior) n. Latin for "let the ... : agency agent negligence principal restitution :: n. 1) returning to the proper owner property or th ... her a shorter sentence than normal. breach of the peace :: n. any act which disturbs the public or even one p ... g inappropriately. See also: breach contract of adhesion :: n. See also: adhesion contract ... n. See also: adhesion contract evasion of tax :: n. the intentional attempt to avoid paying taxes t ... rs. See also: estate tax income tax age of consent :: n. See also: legal age majority ... n. See also: legal age majority landlord's lien :: n. the right of a landlord to sell abandoned perso ... to the ex-tenant and a public sale. severance :: n. 1) a separating by court order, such as separat ... le a potential claim for discharge. special damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... . See also: damages general damages specific finding :: n. a decision on a fact made by a jury in its verd ... so forth. See also: special verdict permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability pain and suffering :: n. the physical and mental distress suffered from ... l damages special damages suffering joint tortfeasors :: n. two or more persons whose negligence in a singl ... : comparative negligence negligence laches :: n. the legal doctrine that a legal right or claim ... , breach of contract, fraud, etc.). law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. liable :: adj. responsible or obligated. Thus, a person or e ... al prosecution. See also: liability joint and several :: adj. referring to a debt or a judgment for neglige ... ution contributory negligence joint jaywalking :: n. walking across a street outside of marked cross ... jury to the jaywalker by a vehicle. injury :: n. any harm done to a person by the acts or omissi ... nction injunctive relief negligence insurance :: n. a contract (insurance policy) in which the insu ... t clause Workers' Compensation Acts intervening cause :: n. an event which occurs between the original impr ... cause negligence superseding cause long-arm statute :: n. law which gives a local state court jurisdictio ... rt jurisdiction over the defendant. loss :: n. 1) the value placed on injury or damages due to ... t and the income. See also: damages negligent :: adj., adv. careless in not fulfilling responsibili ... esponsibility. See also: negligence joint custody :: n. in divorce actions, a decision by the court (of ... em. See also: child custody divorce no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence joint :: adj., adv. referring to property, rights or obliga ... ncy joint venture tenancy in common lewd and lascivious :: adj., adv. references to conduct which includes pe ... t exposure pornography prostitution malfeasance :: n. intentionally doing something either legally or ... sponsibility. See also: misfeasance mental anguish :: n. mental suffering which includes fright, feeling ... See also: damages mental suffering misadventure :: n. a death due to unintentional accident without a ... me. See also: homicide manslaughter failure of issue :: n. when someone dies leaving no children or other ... ildren or other direct descendants. triple net lease :: n. a lease in which the lessee's (tenant's) rent i ... ers and malls. See also: lease rent desertion :: n. the act of abandoning, particularly leaving one ... tody and other post-marital issues. cruelty :: n. the intentional and malicious infliction of phy ... ruel and unusual punishment divorce vehicular manslaughter :: n. the crime of causing the death of a human being ... gence manslaughter reckless driving consumer protection laws :: n. almost all states and the federal government ha ... rranty product liability securities findings of fact :: n. See also: finding ... n. See also: finding dictum :: n. Latin for "remark," a comment by a judge in a d ... cta)." See also: dicta obiter dicta tort :: n. from French for "wrong," a civil wrong or wrong ... nce slander trespass wrongful death fiduciary :: 1) n. from the Latin fiducia, meaning "trust," a p ... lation fiduciary relationship trust tort claims act :: n. a federal or state act which, under certain con ... . See also: Federal Tort Claims Act vicarious liability :: n. sometimes called "imputed liability," attachmen ... r or policeman. See also: liability Workers' Compensation Acts :: n. state statutes which establish liability of emp ... rs' compensation insurance company. boilerplate :: n., adj. slang for provisions in a contract, form ... favor and/or protect the provider. beyond a reasonable doubt :: adj. part of jury instructions in all criminal tri ... on moral certainty reasonable doubt bank :: n. 1) an officially chartered institution empowere ... erred to as "in bank" or "en banc." bad faith :: 1) n. intentional dishonest act by not fulfilling ... ean hands doctrine fraud good faith case system :: n. the method of studying law generally used in Am ... Langdell and soon became standard. ad valorem :: adj. Latin for "based on value," which applies to ... per parcel. See also: property tax class action :: n. a lawsuit filed by one or more people on behalf ... ees usually require court approval. caveat emptor :: (kah-vee-ott emptor) Latin for "let the buyer bewa ... See also: consumer protection laws habitable :: adj. referring to a residence that is safe and can ... rent. See also: landlord and tenant intervene :: v. to obtain the court's permission to enter into ... ntion joinder multiplicity of suits no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain natural law :: n. 1) standards of conduct derived from traditiona ... eated by mankind through the state. moral turpitude :: n. gross violation of standards of moral conduct, ... r penalty for a criminal defendant. merger :: n. 1) in corporate law, the joining together of tw ... and taking one, and wife the other. permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards. preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other. strict construction :: (narrow construction) n. interpreting the Constitu ... See also: constitution construction star chamber proceedings :: n. any judicial or quasi-judicial action, trial or ... ate 1960s. See also: kangaroo court sheriff :: n. the top law enforcement officer for a county, u ... ." See also: bailiff sheriff's sale marriage :: n. the joining of a male and female in matrimony b ... of time without legal formalities. malum prohibitum :: (mal-uhm prohibit-uhm) adj. Latin meaning "wrong d ... lso: malum in se white collar crime suffering :: n. the pain, hurt, inconvenience, embarrassment an ... njury negligence pain and suffering superseding cause :: n. the same as an "intervening cause" or "superven ... : intervening cause proximate cause toll :: v. 1) to delay, suspend or hold off the effect of ... bridge or take passage on a ferry. Juris Doctor :: (J.D.) n. the law degree granted upon graduation b ... tles a person to a graduate degree. subrogation :: n. assuming the legal rights of a person for whom ... also: negligence subrogee subrogor strict liability :: n. automatic responsibility (without having to pro ... bility negligence res ipsa loquitur lease :: 1) n. a written agreement in which the owner of pr ... triple net lease unlawful detainer jurisdiction :: n. the authority given by law to a court to try ca ... Superior Court Supreme Court venue in pari delicto :: adv. (in pah-ree dee-lick-toe) Latin for "in equal ... e proof is that both were involved. permanent disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts foreseeable risk :: n. a danger which a reasonable person should antic ... reseeable. See also: foreseeability stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay emancipation :: n. freeing a minor child from the control of paren ... vorced parent to pay child support. civil :: adj. 1) that part of the law that encompasses busi ... also: civil liberties civil rights cause :: from Latin causa 1) v. to make something happen. 2 ... so: cause of action proximate cause civil code :: n. in many states, the name for the collection of ... negligence lawsuits and practices. gravamen :: n. Latin for "to weigh down," the basic gist of ev ... o: cause of action charge complaint count :: n. each separate statement in a complaint which st ... also: cause of action common counts culpable :: adj. sufficiently responsible for criminal acts or ... ons and thus should take the blame. general damages :: n. monetary recovery (money won) in a lawsuit for ... s exemplary damages special damages writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate direct and proximate cause :: n. the immediate reason damage was caused by an ac ... so: cause complaint proximate cause guest :: n. 1) in general, a person paying to stay in a hot ... ce. See also: guest statute invitee element :: n. 1) an essential requirement to a cause of actio ... of action crime general plan zoning bifurcate :: v. the order or ruling of a judge that one issue i ... is necessary. See also: bifurcation errors and omissions :: n. short hand for malpractice insurance which give ... issions which amount to negligence. living trust :: n. sometimes called an inter vivos (Latin for "wit ... thrift clause trust trustee trustor foreseeability :: n. reasonable anticipation of the possible results ... e also: foreseeable risk negligence guilty :: adj. having been convicted of a crime or having ad ... on of guilt cop a plea plea bargain emotional distress :: n. an increasingly popular basis for a claim of da ... ar value upon it. See also: damages impute :: v. 1) to attach to a person responsibility (and th ... also. See also: vicarious liability standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence patent ambiguity :: n. an obvious inconsistency in the language of a w ... the language of a written document. patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent landlocked :: adj. referring to a parcel of real property which ... which it was created (carved out). pawn :: v. to pledge an item of personal property as secur ... nsed by the state. See also: pledge private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement privilege :: n. a special benefit, exemption from a duty, or im ... rson, a group or a class of people. passion :: n. See also: heat of passion ... n. See also: heat of passion privilege against self incrimina-tion :: n. a right to refuse to testify against oneself in ... so: Bill of Rights taking the Fifth passive :: adj. referring to being inactive. A "passive trust ... ment and interest on bank accounts. primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. private parts :: n. men's or women's genitalia, excluding a woman's ... duction and/or sale of pornography. private nuisance :: n. the interference with an individual's peaceful ... See also: nuisance public nuisance prior(s) :: n. slang for a criminal defendant's previous recor ... es for the third felony conviction. 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. party wall :: n. a wall shared by two adjoining premises which i ... the property of one of the parties. prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone). principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). privacy :: n. the right to be free of unnecessary public scru ... lso: public figure right to privacy private carrier :: n. one who provides transportation or delivery of ... also: common carrier guest statute payment in full :: n. the giving of all funds due to another. This la ... ee accepts the payment as complete. paternity suit :: n. a lawsuit, usually by a mother, to prove that a ... d to a prompt and quiet settlement. payment in due course :: n. the giving of funds to the holder of a promisso ... nds. See also: holder in due course patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent pro hac vice :: : (proh hock vee-chay) prep. Latin for "this time ... association with a local attorney. promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel parole :: n. 1) the release of a convicted criminal defendan ... sed he will not take up arms again. prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate partial breach :: n. the failure to meet a term of a contract which ... g in the missing or expected items. partial verdict :: n. in a criminal trial, the result when the jury f ... re other charges. See also: verdict product liability :: n. the responsibility of manufacturers, distributo ... e known. See also: warrant warranty partial disability :: n. the result of an injury which permanently reduc ... erson's normal functioning is gone. promissory note :: n. a written promise by a person (variously called ... lso: interest obligee obligor usury promoter :: n. a person who puts together a business, particul ... y effort and not by assets or cash. property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property parish :: n. 1) a geographic area served by a church (partic ... overnmental equivalent of a county. property tax :: n. an annual governmental tax on real property or ... are made. See also: ad valorem tax proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party parody :: n. the humorous use of an existing song, play, or ... l significance. See also: copyright parol evidence rule :: n. if there is evidence in writing (such as a sign ... or contradict the written document. promotional stock :: n. stock issued in a newly formed corporation and ... assets or money. See also: promoter participate :: v. to invest and then receive a part or share, as ... he estate of a person who has died. partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. pro rata :: (proh rat-ah or proh ray-tah) adj. from Latin for ... e year in which he/she holds title. partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner pro tem :: 1) adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporari ... as "Sam Collins is Pro Tem today." party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract pro forma :: 1) prep. Latin for "as a matter of form," the phra ... se in annual sales or 6% inflation. probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will proceeding :: n. any legal filing, hearing, trial and/or judgmen ... edings," as in "legal proceedings." process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons process server :: n. a person who serves (delivers) legal papers in ... table. See also: service of process procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made. probative value :: n. evidence which is sufficiently useful to prove ... prior actions. See also: probative partner :: n. 1) one of the co-owners and investors in a "par ... ner limited partnership partnership probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights. peeping tom :: n. a person who stealthily peeks into windows, hol ... n the basis of invasion of privacy. prenuptial agreement :: n. also called an antenuptial agreement, a written ... been "taken" by a previous spouse. pledge :: v. to deposit personal property as security for a ... ise to do something. See also: pawn prerogative writ :: n. an historic generic term for any writ (court or ... ls or another court. See also: writ premises :: n. 1) in real estate, land and the improvements on ... t). See also: real estate structure preliminary injunction :: n. a court order made in the early stages of a law ... ent injunction temporary injunction political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues. police powers :: n. from the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, wh ... host of state regulatory statutes. police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead plead :: v. 1) in civil lawsuits and petitions, to file any ... al conduct. See also: plea pleading plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. parental neglect :: n. a crime consisting of acts or omissions of a pa ... usive or sexually predatory person. plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information post mortem :: n. Latin for "after death," an examination of a de ... alled an autopsy. See also: coroner post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail. precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. 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 practice :: 1) n. custom or habit as shown by repeated action, ... s "she practices law in St. Louis." pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property precedent :: 1) n. a prior reported opinion of an appeals court ... to perform. See also: stare decisis possess :: v. to own, have title to, occupy, physically hold ... ng the estate. See also: possession posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. preferred stock :: n. a class of shares of stock in a corporation whi ... on stock corporation dividend stock preferred dividend :: n. a payment of a corporation's profits to holders ... of stock. See also: preferred stock preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess 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 prescription :: n. the method of acquiring an easement upon anothe ... ty. See also: prescriptive easement pink slip :: n. 1) slang for official automobile registration c ... being fired or laid off from a job. per stirpes :: (purr stir-peas) adj. Latin for "by roots," by rep ... descent and distribution trust will per se :: (purr say) adj. Latin for "by itself," meaning inh ... e statement. See also: libel per se prevailing party :: n. the winner in a lawsuit. Many contracts, leases ... ed before or after trial has begun. peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire pretermitted heir :: n. the child of a person who has written a will in ... cified $10,000 each. See also: heir presiding judge :: n. 1) in both state and federal appeals court, the ... and chairs meetings of the judges. presumption :: n. a rule of law which permits a court to assume a ... resumption at all, but a certainty. perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien per diem :: adj. or n. Latin for "per day," it is short for pa ... or fees of an employee or an agent. price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. peer :: n. an equal. A "jury of one's peers," to which cri ... eria. See also: jury of one's peers prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape penalty :: n. 1) in criminal law, a money fine or forfeiture ... contractor fails to complete a job. penitentiary :: n. a state or federal prison in which convicts are ... mission of major crimes (felonies). per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author. per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. per :: prep. from Latin for "by means of" or simply, "by" ... (by day) or "per capita" (by head). presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note perform :: v. 1) to fulfill one's obligations under a contrac ... court order. See also: performance petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. petition :: 1) n. a formal written request to a court for an o ... dent. See also: divorce motion writ personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution pilferage :: n. a crime of theft of little things, usually from ... ipments or baggage. See also: theft pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood. perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party permit :: 1) v. to allow by silence, agreement or giving a l ... f public revenue. See also: license peculation :: n. misappropriation of public (government) funds o ... roperty. See also: misappropriation overt act :: n. in criminal law, an action which might be innoc ... terrorist bombing of that building. lineal descendant :: n. a person who is in direct line to an ancestor, ... See also: descent and distribution monument :: n. 1) an established landmark which a surveyor use ... torn down or substantially altered. lineup :: n. a law enforcement method used in an attempt to ... entification is precarious at best. monopoly :: n. a business or inter-related group of businesses ... ust laws license restraint of trade molestation :: n. the crime of sexual acts with children up to th ... of rape. See also: pedophilia rape moot :: adj. 1) unsettled, open to argument or debatable, ... st. See also: moot court moot point moot court :: n. law school exercise in which students argue bot ... fferent law schools. See also: moot mortgage :: n. a document in which the owner pledges his/her/i ... losure notice of default trust deed mortgagee :: n. the person or business making a loan that is se ... money. See also: mortgage mortgagor moratorium :: n. 1) any suspension of activity, particularly vol ... to normal activities and earnings. moral certainty :: n. in a criminal trial, the reasonable belief (but ... : beyond a reasonable doubt verdict moot point :: n. 1) a legal question which no court has decided, ... f academic interest. See also: moot modus operandi :: (mode-us ah-purr-and-ee or ah-purr-and-eye) n. fro ... es to disguise a fraudulent scheme. modification :: n. a change in an existing court order or judgment ... terms of child support and custody. 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 literary property :: n. the writings of an author which entitles him/he ... as copyrighted. See also: copyright misjoinder :: n. the inclusion of parties (plaintiffs or defenda ... ent transactions. See also: joinder litigious :: adj. referring to a person who constantly brings o ... e called "professional plaintiffs." misrepresentation :: n. the crime of misstating facts to obtain money, ... etenses." See also: false pretenses mistake :: n. 1) an error in comprehending facts, meaning of ... time. See also: contract rescission M'Naughten rule :: n. a traditional "right and wrong" test of legal i ... temporary insanity Twinkie defense mitigating circumstances :: n. in criminal law, conditions or happenings which ... ity heat of passion Twinkie defense liquidate :: v. to sell the assets of a business, paying bills ... other investors. See also: wind up mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial motion :: n. a formal request made to a judge for an order o ... g, an oral motion may be permitted. motion for a new trial :: n. a request made by the loser for the case to be ... hstanding the verdict motion N.O.V. 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. license :: 1) n. governmental permission to perform a particu ... eement. See also: licensee licensor murder :: n. the killing of a human being by a sane person, ... premeditation second degree murder lie detector test :: n. a popular name for a polygraph which tests the ... be referred to. See also: polygraph necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party negative pregnant :: n. a denial of an allegation in which a person act ... suse, just the amount and the date. net :: : n., adj. the amount of money or value remaining ... or net estate. See also: net estate negotiation :: n. 1) the transfer of a check, promissory note, bi ... te. See also: negotiable instrument negotiable instrument :: n. check, promissory note, bill of exchange, secur ... bearer paper bill of exchange check liberty :: n. freedom from restraint and the power to follow ... the benefit of the general public. municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court lien :: n. any official claim or charge against property o ... ord's lien mechanic's lien mortgage motion for dismissal :: (non-suit) n. application by a defendant in a laws ... otion for nonsuit. See also: motion motion in limine :: (lim-in-nay) n. Latin for "threshold," a motion ma ... o: in limine Miranda warning motion limited liability :: n. the maximum amount a person participating in a ... ted damages partnership shareholder limited partnership :: n. a special type of partnership which is very com ... mited liability partner partnership motion for a summary judgment :: n. a written request for a judgment in the moving ... strict procedures. See also: motion motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike motion to suppress :: n. a motion (usually on behalf of a criminal defen ... eshold." See also: motion in limine life estate :: n. the right to use or occupy real property for on ... hter, Sadie, will own the property. multifarious :: adj., adv. reference to a lawsuit in which either ... ed misjoinder. See also: misjoinder motive :: n. in criminal investigation the probable reason a ... is not necessary to prove a crime. limited jurisdiction :: n. courts' authority over certain types of cases s ... value. See also: court jurisdiction misdemeanor :: n. a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or coun ... tion are felonies. See also: felony mirror wills :: n. the wills of a husband and wife which are ident ... d each names the other as executor. master and servant :: n. the body of law, including statutes and legal d ... lso: employment respondeat superior material :: adj. relevant and significant. In a lawsuit, "mate ... contract is not a material breach. master :: n. 1) employer, in the area of law known as "maste ... ter and servant respondeat superior malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum Massachusetts Trust :: n. a business in which the investors give manageme ... provide for eventual distribution. malicious prosecution :: n. filing a lawsuit with the intention of creating ... vor of the victim. See also: malice material witness :: n. a person who apparently has information about t ... e. See also: material trial witness malice :: n. a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a ... cution murder public figure slander maxims :: n. a collection of legal truisms which are used as ... e and the ordinary habits of life." maturity :: n. 1) the date when the payment of the principal a ... exchange legal age promissory note malice aforethought :: n. 1) the conscious intent to cause death or great ... : first degree murder malice murder martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors. manslaughter :: n. the unlawful killing of another person without ... laughter. See also: homicide murder marital deduction :: n. an estate tax deduction allowed a surviving spo ... community property estate tax trust Mann Act :: n. a federal statute making it a crime to transpor ... is five years in a federal prison. manifest :: 1) adj., adv. completely obvious or evident. 2) n. ... ritten list of goods in a shipment. mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder marital rights :: n. an old-fashioned expression for the rights of a ... also: consortium loss of consortium maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty marketable title :: n. the title to real property which has no encumbr ... e. See also: contract real property market value :: n. the price which a seller of property would rece ... ich are often called "comparables." marked for identification :: adj. documents or objects presented during a trial ... exhibit lay a foundation objection mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate make one whole :: v. to pay or award damages sufficient to put the p ... fault of another. See also: damages make :: v. 1) to create something. 2) to sign a check, pro ... xchange check maker promissory note loiter :: v. to linger or hang around in a public place or b ... kenness or being a public nuisance. living will :: n. also called "a durable power of attorney," it i ... upport. See also: power of attorney lower court :: n. 1) any court of lesser rank, such as municipal ... ruled Defendant had no basis for:." mesne :: : (mean, with a silent s) adj. from Norman French ... e profits." See also: mesne profits magistrate :: n. 1) a generic term for any judge of a court, or ... ce of the peace preliminary hearing military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate mining claim :: n. a description by boundaries of real property in ... g within a specific period of time. Miranda warning :: n. the requirement, also called the Miranda rule, ... me such a suspect? See also: rights minutes :: n. 1) the written record of meetings, particularly ... court reporter if recorded at all. minority :: n. 1) in voting, a side with less than half the vo ... See also: legal age majority minor ministerial act :: n. an act, particularly of a governmental employee ... exercising any individual judgment. merchantable :: adj. a product of a high enough quality to make it ... taminated or flawed. See also: sale mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code mechanic's lien :: n. the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, ar ... ll sue for the debt. See also: lien mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration majority :: n. 1) the age when a person can exercise all norma ... t. See also: child infancy minority McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning mayhem :: 1) n. the criminal act of disabling, disfiguring o ... so: aggravated assault assault maim maim :: v. to inflict a serious bodily injury, including m ... to a prison term. See also: mayhem mail box rule :: n. in contract law, making a written offer or acce ... nse in hand when the time runs out. mental cruelty :: n. a term, rapidly going out of fashion and out of ... history. See also: cruelty divorce memorandum :: n. 1) a brief writing, note, summary or outline. 2 ... r "The decision below is affirmed." Magna Carta :: n. Latin for "Great Charter," it was a document de ... s. It is also spelled Magna Charta. meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion. net estate :: n. the remaining estate of a person who has died, ... alue. See also: estate tax gift tax libel per se :: n. broadcast or written publication of a false sta ... See also: defamation libel slander last antecedent rule :: n. a doctrine of interpretation (construction) of ... o trucks and not boats or tractors. larceny :: n. the crime of taking the goods of another person ... : grand larceny petty larceny theft last will and testament :: n. a fancy and redundant way of saying "will." Law ... writing another one. See also: will latent defect :: n. a hidden flaw, weakness or imperfection in an a ... warranty product liability warranty lateral support :: n. the right of a land- owner to assurance that hi ... support problems are less dramatic. lapse :: 1) v. to fail to occur, particularly a gift made i ... eficiary devisee legatee trust will landlord and tenant :: n. the name for the area of law concerning renting ... ord lease lessee lessor rent tenant on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred. on file :: prep. having been formally filed with the clerk of ... eading is "on file." See also: file on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent omnibus clause :: n. 1) an automobile insurance policy clause which ... he beneficiaries named in the will. law :: n. 1) any system of regulations to govern the cond ... um maritime law natural law statute law book :: n. any of numerous volumes dealing with law, inclu ... : common law law Shepardize statute occupancy :: n. 1) living in or using premises, as a tenant or ... ining ownership. See also: occupant occupant :: n. 1) someone living in a residence or using premi ... gain ownership. See also: occupancy leading :: 1) v. short for "leading the witness," in which th ... tness leading the witness objection leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection obscene :: adj., adv. a highly subjective reference to materi ... en I see it." See also: pornography occupation :: n. 1) fairly permanent trade, profession, employme ... of real property or use of a thing. occupational disease :: n. an illness resulting from long-term employment ... tion for a work-related disability. lawsuit :: n. a common term for a legal action by one person ... See also: case cause of action suit lay a foundation :: v. in evidence, to provide to the judge the qualif ... ce and training. See also: evidence occupy the field :: v. to preempt (monopolize) an area of statutory la ... ertain topics. See also: preemption occupational hazard :: n. a danger or risk inherent in certain employment ... e of death or injury while at work. on the stand :: prep. testifying during a trial, in which the witn ... troom and behind a knee-high panel. open court :: n. the conduct of judicial proceedings (trials, he ... which are usually held in chambers. paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader pander :: 1) v. to solicit customers for a prostitute. 2) n. ... ons or favors. See also: prostitute owner :: n. one who has legal title or right to something. ... ke one a legal owner. See also: own own recognizance :: (O.R.) n. the basis for a judge allowing a person ... n recognizance. See also: bail O.R. mandate :: n. 1) any mandatory order or requirement under sta ... See also: mandamus writ of mandate panel :: n. the list of people selected to appear for jury ... or jury duty. See also: jury venire par :: n. 1) an equal level. 2) the face value of a stock ... common stock preferred stock stock pardon :: 1) v. to use the executive power of a Governor or ... also: amnesty commutation reprieve parcel :: n. a defined piece of real estate, usually resulti ... See also: real estate real property paramount title :: n. a right to real property which prevails over an ... n's claim of title. See also: title paralegal :: n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiri ... h less than that for the attorneys. overrule :: v. 1) to reject an attorney's objection to a quest ... : appellate court objection sustain overcharge :: v. 1) to charge more than a posted or advertised p ... osecutor to intimidate the accused. or :: conj. either; in the alternative. It is often vita ... n," both must sign to change title. oral contract :: n. an agreement made with spoken words and either ... itten. See also: agreement contract option :: n. a right to purchase property or require another ... ng or upon expiration of the lease. opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified. opening statement :: n. the explanation by the attorneys for both sides ... rgument. See also: closing argument order :: 1) n. every direction or mandate of a judge or a c ... defendant. See also: judge judgment order to show cause :: n. a judge's written mandate that a party appear i ... vernmental agency. See also: O.S.C. output contract :: n. an agreement in which a producer agrees to sell ... h it may have to store away a glut. outbuilding :: n. a structure not connected with the primary resi ... arn, cabana, pool house or cottage. ouster :: n. 1) the wrongful dispossession (putting out) of ... ainst his/her expectations or will. original jurisdiction :: n. the authority of a court to hold a trial, as di ... l judgments. See also: jurisdiction objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection lesser crime :: n. See also: lesser-included offense ... . See also: lesser-included offense non-conforming use :: n. the existing use (residential, commercial, agri ... eneral plan grandfathered in zoning nominee :: n. 1) a person or entity who is requested or named ... ic office. See also: agent executor nominal party :: n. a defendant or a plaintiff included in a lawsui ... ed. See also: necessary party party nominal damages :: n. a small amount of money awarded to a plaintiff ... had been damaged. See also: damages non-contestability clause :: n. an insurance policy provision which requires th ... claim is made by the policyholder. non-contiguous :: adj. referring to two or more parcels of real prop ... l property which are not connected. legitimate :: adj., adv1) legal, proper, real. 2) referring to a ... 3) v. to make proper and/or legal. non-feasance :: n. the failure of an agent (employee) to perform a ... . See also: malfeasance misfeasance non-discretionary trust :: n. a trust in which the trustee is directed to inv ... ower in the matter. See also: trust lemon law :: n. statutes adopted in some states to make it easi ... still trying" to make it run right. lessor :: n. the owner of real property who rents it to a le ... lord and tenant lease lessee tenant let :: v. 1) to allow or permit. This is distinguished fr ... rson. See also: lease rent sublease levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution leverage :: 1) n. the use of borrowed money to purchase real e ... e been created by risky leveraging. proprietary rights :: n. those rights which go with ownership of real pr ... hip of real property or a business. libel :: 1) n. to publish in print (including pictures), wr ... libel per se public figure slander next friend :: n. a person (often a relative) who voluntarily hel ... filed. See also: guardian ad litem letters testamentary :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... te. See also: administrator probate letters :: n. shorthand for letters testamentary or letters o ... administration letters testamentary nolo contendere :: (no-low kahn-ten-durr-ray) n. Latin for "I will no ... f no contest." See also: no contest nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi. no fault divorce :: n. divorces (dissolutions) in which neither spouse ... and South Dakota. See also: divorce nisi prius :: : (nee-see pree-us) adj. Latin for "unless first," ... : original jurisdiction trial court legatee :: n. a person or organization receiving a gift of an ... eficiary devise devisee legacy will legalese :: n. slang for the sometimes arcane, convoluted and ... rgon of lawyers and legal scholars. nugatory :: adj. of no force or effect; invalid. Example: a st ... unconstitutional is a nugatory law. nuisance :: n. the unreasonable, unwarranted and/or unlawful u ... evening). See also: public nuisance noxious :: adj. harmful to health, often referring to nuisanc ... alth, often referring to nuisances. novation :: n. agreement of parties to a contract to substitut ... . See also: accord and satisfaction notorious possession :: n. occupation of real property or holding personal ... e is as if the person is the owner. nullity :: n. something which may be treated as nothing, as i ... of a marriage by a court judgment. nunc pro tunc :: (nuhnk proh tuhnk) adj. Latin for "now for then," ... r actuality of a bigamous marriage. leading the witness :: n. asking a question during a trial or deposition ... n hostile witness leading objection obiter dicta :: : (oh-bitter dick-tah) n. remarks of a judge which ... imply dicta. See also: dicta dictum oath :: n. 1) a swearing to tell the truth, the whole trut ... ountry. See also: affidavit perjury O.R. :: n. short for "own recognizance," meaning the judge ... "OR-ed." See also: own recognizance notice to quit :: n. the notice given by a landlord (owner) to a ten ... h-to-month notice unlawful detainer leasehold :: n. the real estate which is the subject of a lease ... sehold. See also: condominium lease legal fiction :: n. a presumption of fact assumed by a court for co ... he law, and not law from fictions." legal aid society :: n. an organization formed to assist persons who ha ... bar association. See also: pro bono not guilty :: n. 1) plea of a person who claims not to have comm ... t guilty by reason of insanity plea non-suit :: n. a ruling by the judge in a lawsuit either when ... the defendant. See also: dismissal legal separation :: n. a court-decreed right to live apart, with the r ... n is rarely used. See also: divorce legal advertising :: n. 1) notices of probate sales and other documents ... quality of the lawyers advertising. notary public :: n. a person authorized by the state in which the p ... he state which appoints the notary. notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice note :: n. a promissory note, a written statement of debt ... the note. See also: promissory note legacy :: n. a gift of personal property or money to a benef ... o: beneficiary bequest legatee will legal :: adj., adv. according to law, not in violation of l ... law or anything related to the law. parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption replevin :: n. under common law, the right to bring a lawsuit ... se of action" for all civil wrongs. surrender :: v. 1) to turn over possession of real property, ei ... lf up to law enforcement officials. surrogate :: n. 1) a person acting on behalf of another or a su ... or probates, estates and adoptions. surety :: n. a guarantor of payment or performance if anothe ... or entity. See also: bond guarantor surcharge :: n. an additional charge of money made because it w ... for being late in making a payment. Supreme Court :: n. 1) the highest court in the United States, whic ... rt in other states. See also: court survivorship :: n. the right to receive full title or ownership du ... onvenience. See also: joint tenancy suspended sentence :: n. in criminal law, a penalty applied by a judge t ... may be enforced. See also: sentence tainted evidence :: n. in a criminal trial, information which has been ... e search and seizure search warrant take :: v. to gain or obtain possession, including the rec ... eal property or stealing an object. syndicate :: n. a joint venture among individuals and/or corpor ... l dissolve. See also: joint venture swindle :: v. to cheat through trick, device, false statement ... orm of theft. See also: fraud theft swear :: v. 1) to declare under oath that one will tell the ... ee also: notary public oath perjury supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue. supra :: (sooh-prah) Latin for "above," in legal briefs and ... d as Guinn v. United States, supra. successive sentences :: n. in criminal law, the imposition of the penalty ... uld be 15 years. See also: sentence sui generis :: (sooh-ee jen-ur-iss) n. Latin for "one of a kind," ... Latin for "one of a kind," unique. succession :: n. the statutory rules of inheritance of a dead pe ... istribution." See also: inheritance substitution :: n. putting one person in place of another, in part ... See also: substitution of attorney substituted service :: n. accomplishing service (delivery) of legal docum ... ee also: service service of process suicide :: n. the intentional killing of oneself. Ironically, ... e manslaughter second degree murder suit :: n. generic term for any filing of a complaint (or ... "suit in equity." See also: lawsuit summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ supersedeas :: (sooh-purr-said-ee-uhs) Latin for "you shall desis ... . See also: appeal court of appeals summation :: n. the final argument of an attorney at the close ... 's case. See also: closing argument summary judgment :: n. a court order ruling that no factual issues rem ... tion summary adjudication of issues sum certain :: n. a specific amount stated in a contract or negot ... r redecoration of Williams' house." taking the Fifth :: n. the refusal to testify on the ground that the t ... ifth." See also: self-incrimination tax :: n. a governmental assessment (charge) upon propert ... unified estate and gift tax use tax testamentary disposition :: n. how the terms of a will divide the testator's ( ... named beneficiaries. See also: will testamentary trust :: n. a trust created by the terms of a will. Example ... vivos trust living trust trust will testamentary capacity :: n. having the mental competency to execute a will ... lso: competent undue influence will term :: n. 1) in contracts or leases, a period of time, su ... nancy" is one term for "occupancy." tenure :: n. 1) in real property, the right to possess the p ... e a probationary period has passed. testator :: n. a person who has written a will which is in eff ... me of his/her death. See also: will testatrix :: n. female form of testator, although distinguishin ... out of fashion. See also: testator third party :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract or a ... beneficiary third-party beneficiary third-party beneficiary :: n. a person who is not a party to a contract but h ... tract as a third-party beneficiary. theft :: n. the generic term for all crimes in which a pers ... rglary embezzlement larceny robbery testimony :: n. oral evidence given under oath by a witness in ... tion evidence testify trial witness testify :: v. to give oral evidence under oath in answer to q ... deposition evidence testimony trial 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 tax return :: n. the form to be filed with a taxing authority by ... able to the taxpayer. See also: tax tax sale :: n. an auction sale of a taxpayer's property conduc ... government to collect unpaid taxes. tax evasion :: n. intentional and fraudulent attempt to escape pa ... o reduce the amount of payable tax. Tax Court :: n. a federal agency with courts in major cities wh ... Appeals. See also: court income tax tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction temporary insanity :: n. in a criminal prosecution, a defense by the acc ... diminished capacity insanity intent 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 tenancy at will :: n. occupation of real property owned by another un ... right to occupy. See also: tenancy tenancy at sufferance :: n. a "hold-over" tenancy after a lease has expired ... y tenancy at will unlawful detainer tenancy :: n. the right to occupy real property permanently, ... rety tenancy in common tenant title substitute in :: v. to take over a case from another lawyer, which ... See also: substitution of attorney substantial performance :: n. in the law of contracts, fulfillment of the obl ... also: contract specific performance specific legacy :: n. a gift in a will of a certain article or proper ... ecific bequest specific devise will specific performance :: n. the right of a party to a contract to demand th ... artwork. See also: contract prayer specific devise :: n. the gift in a will of a certain piece of real e ... ther, David." See also: devise will specific bequest :: n. the gift in a will of a certain article to a ce ... ce, Sophie." See also: bequest will special verdict :: n. the jury's decisions or findings of fact with t ... utation. See also: specific finding speedy trial :: n. in criminal prosecutions, the right of a defend ... hurt by the waiver. See also: trial spendthrift clause :: n. a provision in a trust or will that states that ... tly to Junior. See also: trust will stakeholder :: n. a person having in his/her possession (holding) ... ment or agreement. See also: escrow standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction spousal support :: n. payment for support of an ex-spouse (or a spous ... but two. See also: alimony divorce spot zoning :: n. a provision in a general plan which benefits a ... . See also: grandfathered in zoning spontaneous exclamation :: n. a sudden statement caused by the speaker having ... et hit the girl." See also: hearsay special prosecutor :: n. an attorney from outside of the government sele ... Robert Bork finally discharged Cox. special master :: n. a person appointed by the court to carry out an ... ting to the judge. See also: master solicitation :: n. the crime of encouraging or inducing another to ... xual acts for pay. See also: pander Solicitor General :: n. the chief trial attorney in the federal Departm ... Attorney General in the Department. sodomy :: n. anal copulation by a man inserting his penis in ... tiality). See also: bestiality rape 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 solitary confinement :: n. the placement of a prisoner in a federal or sta ... as "cruel and unusual punishment." sound mind and memory :: n. having an understanding of one's actions and re ... ee also: competent incompetent will special appearance :: n. the representation by an attorney of a person i ... anged. See also: general appearance special circumstances :: n. in criminal cases, particularly homicides, acti ... urant. See also: capital punishment special administrator :: n. a person appointed by the court in a probate pr ... or administrator. See also: probate speaking demurrer :: n. an attempt to introduce evidence during a heari ... the operation." See also: demurrer sounds in :: adj. referring to the underlying legal basis for a ... ause of action sounds in contract." stare decisis :: : (stah-ree duh-sigh-sis) n. Latin for "to stand b ... pellate court lower court precedent state :: n. 1) the federal or state government and any of i ... d States. 3) a nation's government. submitted :: n. the conclusion of all evidence and argument in ... , no further argument is permitted. subordination :: n. allowing a debt or claim which has priority to ... . See also: subordination agreement sublease :: n. the lease to another of all or a portion of pre ... and sublease. See also: lease rent subject to :: adj. referring to the acquisition of title to real ... : assumption deed of trust mortgage subcontractor :: n. a person or business which has a contract (as a ... ependent contractor mechanic's lien subordination agreement :: n. a written contract in which a lender who has se ... ty records. See also: subordination subpena :: (subpoena): (suh-pea-nah) n. an order of the court ... ubpena duces tecum subpoena witness subrogor :: n. a person or entity that transfers his/her/its l ... ges. See also: subrogation subrogee subscribe :: v. 1) to sign at the end of a document. The courts ... r periodical magazine or newspaper. subrogee :: n. the person or entity that assumes the legal rig ... aid. See also: subrogation subrogor subpoena :: n. the original spelling of subpena, still commonl ... e also: subpena subpena duces tecum subpena duces tecum :: : (suh-pea-nah dooh-chess-take-uhm or dooh-kess-ta ... ng a court order. See also: witness subchapter S corporation :: n. the choice by a small corporation to be treated ... ing attorney. See also: corporation sua sponte :: : (sooh-uh spahn-tay) adj. Latin for "of one's own ... ot have jurisdiction over the case. stay :: n. a court-ordered short-term delay in judicial pr ... r case. See also: stay of execution stipulation :: n. an agreement, usually on a procedural matter, b ... g, signed and filed with the court. statutory rape :: n. sexual intercourse with a female below the lega ... majority minority molestation rape status conference :: n. a pre-trial meeting of attorneys before a judge ... g a trial date. See also: discovery state action :: n. in federal Civil Rights Acts, dating back to 18 ... for damages. See also: civil rights stock :: 1) n. inventory (goods) of a business meant for sa ... siness. See also: share shareholder stock certificate :: n. printed document which states the name, incorpo ... . See also: corporation share stock straw man :: n. 1) a person to whom title to property or a busi ... a trail will mislead hunting dogs). strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store. stop and frisk :: n. a law enforcement officer's search for a weapon ... h search and seizure search warrant stock option :: n. the right to purchase stock in the future at a ... hares. See also: option share stock stock in trade :: n. the inventory of merchandise held for sale. ... ntory of merchandise held for sale. Thirty-day notice :: n. a notice by a landlord to a tenant on a month-t ... e also: landlord and tenant service three strikes, you're out :: n. recent (beginning 1994) legislation enacted in ... ich involve small amounts of money. verification :: n. the declaration under oath or upon penalty of p ... ed. See also: answer complaint oath vested :: adj. referring to having an absolute right or titl ... ed. See also: vest vested remainder verdict :: n. the decision of a jury after a trial, which mus ... nt quotient verdict special verdict venue :: n. 1) the proper or most convenient location for t ... ion. See also: forum non conveniens vendor :: n. a seller, particularly of real property. ... ler, particularly of real property. vested remainder :: n. the absolute right to receive title after a pre ... pass to him. See also: vest vested vexatious litigation :: n. filing a lawsuit with the knowledge that it has ... lous malicious prosecution sanction void for vagueness :: adj. referring to a statute defining a crime which ... o the states by the 14th Amendment. voidable :: adj. capable of being made void. Example: a contra ... ot necessarily void. See also: void void :: adj. referring to a statute, contract, ruling or a ... udgment is void. See also: voidable viz :: prep. to wit, or namely. Example: "There were seve ... d broken windows." See also: to wit vigilante :: n. someone who takes the law into his/her own hand ... lester of her child is a vigilante. vendee :: n. a buyer, particularly of real property. ... yer, particularly of real property. variance :: n. 1) an exception to a zoning ordinance, authoriz ... process." See also: dismissal proof unlawful assembly :: n. the act of assembling for the purpose of starti ... gton and Chicago in the late 1960s. unlawful detainer :: n. 1) keeping possession of real property without ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice unlawful :: adj. referring to any action which is in violation ... on, or established legal precedents 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. unreasonable search and seizure :: n. search of an individual or his/her premises (in ... e probable cause search and seizure use :: n. the right to enjoy the benefits of real propert ... ay it is only of academic interest. 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 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. usury :: n. a rate of interest on a debt which is exorbitan ... al Reserve Bank. See also: usurious voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge voting trust :: n. a trust which solicits vote proxies of sharehol ... ation proxy shareholder stockholder withdrawal :: n. 1) in criminal law, leaving a conspiracy to com ... count. See also: check renunciation witness :: 1) n. a person who testifies under oath in a trial ... lso: deposition evidence trial will wiretap :: n. using an electronic device to listen in on tele ... invasion of privacy probable cause 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 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. zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |