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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 2070 power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. attorney of record :: n. the attorney who has appeared in court and/or s ... eve have long since been completed. power of appointment :: n. the right to leave property by will, transfer, ... death of the person with the power. power of acceptance :: n. the ability to accept an offer and thus create ... ecide to accept the original offer. substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in attorney-in-fact :: n. someone specifically named by another through a ... cument. See also: power of attorney contempt of court :: n. there are essentially two types of contempt: a) ... roduce evidence. See also: sanction non-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge defense attorney :: n. 1) the attorney representing the defendant in a ... lso: defendant plaintiff's attorney attorney's work product :: n. written materials, charts, notes of conversatio ... ivileged communication work product benefit of counsel :: n. having the opportunity to have an attorney and ... attorney is the person's own fault. 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 of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. official :: 1) adj. referring to an act, document or anything ... tion or business. See also: officer declaration of mailing :: n. a form stating that a particular document has b ... other party. See also: declaration attorney's fee :: n. the payment for legal services. It can take sev ... ees in the particular type of case. police powers :: n. from the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, wh ... host of state regulatory statutes. offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony attorney's advertising :: n. the commercials which appear on television or c ... es to handle high volume practices. professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation attorney :: n. 1) an agent or someone authorized to act for an ... ialize. See also: court reciprocity not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. acceptance of service :: n. agreement by a defendant (or his/her attorney) ... o accept service. See also: service Code of Professional Responsibility :: n. a set of rules governing the ethical conduct of ... de has been adopted by most states. attorney at law (or attorney-at-law) :: n. (or attorney-at-law) a slightly fancier way of ... r way of saying attorney or lawyer. attorney-client privilege :: n. the requirement that an attorney may not reveal ... ivileged communication work product District Attorney (D.A.) :: n. an elected official of a county or a designated ... dent and serve at his/her pleasure. declaration of trust :: n. the document signed by a trustor (settlor) crea ... also: settlor trust trustee trustor Attorney General :: n. in each state and the federal government the hi ... izenry. See also: Solicitor General Bill of Rights :: n. the first ten amendments to the federal Constit ... ved to the states or to the people. obstruction of justice :: n. an attempt to interfere with the administration ... n arrest. Such activity is a crime. case of first impression :: n. a case in which a question of interpretation of ... rts may be examined as a guideline. cause of action :: n. the basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds ... property. See also: element lawsuit subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury indictable offense :: n. a crime (offense) for which a Grand Jury rules ... o commit them. See also: indictment certificate of deposit (CD) :: n. a document issued by a bank in return for a dep ... D before the pledged time runs out. certificate of incorporation :: n. document which some states issue to prove a cor ... the articles are sufficient proof. offeree :: n. a person or entity to whom an offer to enter in ... t is made by another (the offeror). officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule 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. statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. officer :: n. 1) a high-level management official of a corpor ... deputy sheriff or federal marshal. offeror :: n. a person or entity who makes a specific proposa ... t. See also: contract offer offeree off calendar :: adj. refers to an order of the court to take a law ... of either party. See also: calendar chain of title :: n. the succession of title ownership to real prope ... title conveyance foreclosure title offender :: n. an accused defendant in a criminal case or one ... crime. See also: accused defendant offense :: n. a crime or punishable violation of law of any t ... type or magnitude. See also: crime capital offense :: n. any criminal charge which is punishable by the ... . See also: bail capital punishment offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract certificate of title :: n. generally, the title document for a motor vehic ... a "pink slip." See also: pink slip breach of contract :: n. failing to perform any term of a contract, writ ... breach breach specific performance muniment of title :: n. documentary evidence of title to real property. ... also: deed quiet title action title multiplicity of suits :: n. several actual or potential lawsuits which shou ... e can order the cases consolidated. Bachelor of Laws :: n. the degree in law from a law school, abbreviate ... troactively. See also: Juris Doctor tools of trade :: n. in bankruptcy law, the equipment a person requi ... pay creditors. See also: bankruptcy joinder of issue :: n. that point in a lawsuit when the defendant has ... matters are to be decided by trial. next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution time is of the essence :: n. a phrase often used in contracts which in effec ... g the agreement. See also: contract transfer in contemplation of death :: n. giving property under the belief of the giver t ... lso: gift in contemplation of death trier of fact :: n. the judge or jury responsible for deciding fact ... r referee may be the trier of fact. articles of impeachment :: n. the charges brought (filed) to impeach a public ... y the Senate. See also: impeachment mitigation of damages :: n. the requirement that someone injured by another ... he lease) to mitigate his/her loss. articles of incorporation :: n. the basic charter of a corporation which spells ... year's taxes. See also: corporation jury of one's peers :: n. a guaranteed right of criminal defendants, in w ... y African Americans. See also: jury assumption of risk :: n. 1) taking a chance in a potentially dangerous s ... d be damaged or prove unprofitable. 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. invasion of privacy :: n. the intrusion into the personal life of another ... randeis. See also: right to privacy acknowledge :: v. 1) generally to admit something, whether bad, g ... recording. See also: acknowledgment breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty breach of trust :: n. 1) any act which is in violation of the duties ... ise or confidence. See also: breach notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice inspection of documents :: n. the right to examine and copy the opposing part ... evidence subpena duces tecum trial suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence burden of proof :: n. the requirement that the plaintiff (the party b ... ence prima facie weight of evidence breach of promise :: n. historically, the dumping of a female fiancee b ... d no longer exist. See also: breach statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud bill of exchange :: n. a writing by a party (maker or drawer) ordering ... awn on a bank account is a "check." bill of attainder :: n. a legislative act which declares a named person ... e I, Section 9 of the Constitution. bill of lading :: n. a receipt obtained by the shipper of goods from ... ll of lading, there is no delivery. bill of particulars :: n. a written itemization of claims which a defenda ... the factual bases for the charges. board of directors :: n. the policy managers of a corporation or organiz ... he expertise. See also: corporation bill of sale :: n. a written statement attesting to the transfer ( ... ther provisions. See also: contract summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment commencement of action :: n. an action (a lawsuit) commences (begins officia ... ing a complaint. See also: petition possibility of a reverter :: n. the potential that the title to a real property ... further issue. See also: reversion possession of stolen goods :: n. the crime of possession of goods which one know ... e legal owner. See also: possession deed of trust :: n. a document which pledges real property to secur ... : foreclosure mortgage reconveyance firm offer :: n. in contract law, an offer (usually in writing) ... ptance contract counter offer offer degree of kinship :: n. the level of relationship between two persons r ... there is no will. See also: descent registry of deeds :: n. the records of land title documents kept by the ... mployee to locate. See also: record rejection of claim :: n. in probate law (administration of an estate of ... stion of administrative remedies"). four corners of an instrument :: n. the term for studying an entire document to und ... solve an ambiguity in its language. Restatement of the Law :: n. a series of detailed statements of the basic la ... tracts, property, torts and trusts. crime of passion :: n. a defendant's excuse for committing a crime due ... dant. See also: manslaughter murder right of way :: n. 1) a pathway or road with a specific descriptio ... s easement egress floating easement gift in contemplation of death :: n. (called a gift causa mortis by lawyers showing ... ift tax unified estate and gift tax return of service :: n. written confirmation under oath by a process se ... ee also: service service of process frustration of purpose :: n. sometimes called commercial frustration, when u ... n. See also: commercial frustration restraint of trade :: n. in antitrust law, any activity (including agree ... also: antitrust laws monopoly trust fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence failure of consideration :: n. not delivering goods or services when promised ... n. See also: consideration contract equity of redemption :: n. the right of a mortgagor (person owing on a loa ... so: foreclosure mortgage redemption duty of care :: n. a requirement that a person act toward others a ... e also: negligence standard of care proffer :: v. to offer evidence in a trial. ... v. to offer evidence in a trial. election of remedies :: n. an outmoded requirement that if a plaintiff (pa ... dence has not been fully presented. equal protection of the law :: n. the right of all persons to have the same acces ... laws." See also: due process of law proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence entry of judgment :: n. the placement of a judgment on the official rol ... on the official roll of judgments. due process of law :: n. a fundamental principle of fairness in all lega ... procedural and substantive rights. question of fact :: n. in a lawsuit or criminal prosecution, an issue ... also: finding judge question of law principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. fact finder (finder of fact) :: n. in a trial of a lawsuit or criminal prosecution ... n facts. See also: question of fact presumption of innocence :: n. a fundamental protection for a person accused o ... yond a reasonable doubt presumption dissolution of corporation :: n. termination of a corporation, either a) volunta ... e government. See also: corporation diversity of citizenship :: n. when opposing parties in a lawsuit are citizens ... unt in controversy exceeds $10,000. question of law :: n. an issue arising in a lawsuit or criminal prose ... udge question of fact trier of fact ex officio :: a (ex oh-fish-ee-oh)dj. Latin for "from the office ... ne is president of the corporation. 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 sex offender :: n. generic term for all persons convicted of crime ... pornography rape sexual harassment conclusion of law :: n. a judge's final decision on a question of law w ... aw if requested. See also: judgment conclusion of fact :: n. in a trial, the final result of an analysis of ... quested. See also: finding judgment confession of judgment :: n. a written agreement in which the defendant in a ... rms are fulfilled by the defendant. setoff :: (offset) n. a claim by a defendant in a lawsuit th ... ee also: affirmative defense offset heirs of the body :: n. descendants of one's bloodline, such as childre ... nal owner. See also: heir reversion service of process :: n. the delivery of copies of legal documents such ... by publication substituted service shifting the burden of proof :: n. the result of the plaintiff in a lawsuit meetin ... o: burden of proof prima facie case out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence color of law :: n. the appearance of an act being performed based ... xtort payoffs to forget the ticket. color of title :: n. the appearance of having title to personal or r ... rty based on this "color of title." misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. heat of passion :: n. in a criminal case, when the accused was in an ... oing. See also: manslaughter murder risk of loss :: n. the responsibility a carrier, borrower or user ... e is damage or loss. See also: risk counter offer :: n. an offer made in response to a previous offer b ... it expire. See also: contract offer cost of completion :: n. the amount of money (damages) required to compl ... d on percentage of work to be done. peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate course of employment :: adj. actively involved in a person's employment at ... Acts. See also: scope of employment Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark court of appeals :: n. any court (state or federal) which hears appeal ... eals courts. See also: appeal court rules of court :: n. a set of procedural regulations adopted by cour ... s counsel. See also: procedure rule satisfaction of judgment :: n. a document signed by a judgment creditor (the p ... ord. See also: abstract of judgment head of household :: n. 1) in federal income tax law, the person filing ... n or daughter. 3) "head of family." party of the second part :: n. a reference to a party to a written contract, a ... " See also: party of the first part contemplation of death :: n. the anticipation of death in a relatively short ... e also: unified estate and gift tax sealing of records :: n. trial records and decisions which a judge order ... eep the terms from public scrutiny. satisfaction of mortgage :: n. a document signed by a lender acknowledging tha ... id off the debt. See also: mortgage scope of employment :: n. actions of an employee which further the busine ... ter and servant respondeat superior state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident change of circumstances :: n. the principal reason for a court modifying (ame ... ild support divorce spousal support alienation of affections :: n. convincing a wife to leave her husband, often f ... een abolished in almost all states. joint powers agreement :: n. a contract between a city, a county and/or a sp ... istrict or other government entity. plaintiff's attorney :: n. the attorney who represents a plaintiff (the su ... ee also: defense attorney plaintiff letter of credit :: n. a document issued by a bank guaranteeing to pro ... ong-distance business transactions. matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages admission of evidence :: n. a judge's acceptance of evidence in a trial. Se ... ence in a trial. See also: evidence law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." admission of guilt :: n. a statement by someone accused of a crime that ... ssion guilty Miranda warning rights letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate act of God :: n. a natural catastrophe which no one can prevent ... atural event. God knows the answer! lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain agent for acceptance of service :: n. states require that a corporation name an actua ... corporations. See also: corporation abuse of process :: n. the use of legal process by illegal, malicious, ... ly correct the error and apologize. abuse of discretion :: n. a polite way of saying a trial judge has made s ... partner's realistic ability to pay. disbar :: v. to remove an attorney from the list of practici ... legal ethics. (See moral turpitude criminal attorney :: n. a popular term for an attorney who specializes ... . See also: crime felon misdemeanor fiduciary :: 1) n. from the Latin fiducia, meaning "trust," a p ... lation fiduciary relationship trust discretion :: n. the power of a judge, public official or a priv ... t a variance to a zoning ordinance. abstract of title :: n. the written report on a title search which show ... e also: chain of title title report abstract of judgment :: n. a written summary of a judgment which states ho ... aying the debt. See also: levy lien weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations youthful offenders :: n. under-age people accused of crimes who are proc ... alty. See also: juvenile delinquent loss of bargain :: n. the inability to complete a sale or other busin ... ned in a lawsuit. See also: damages sign :: v. 1) to write one's signature on a document, incl ... language. See also: mark subscribe writ of execution :: n. a court order to a sheriff to enforce a judgmen ... ing plaintiff). See also: execution words of art :: n. 1) specialized language with meaning peculiar t ... cialize in a particular occupation. writ of attachment :: n. a court order directing a sheriff (or other law ... hat defendant. See also: attachment mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne acknowledgment :: n. the section at the end of a document where a no ... me leases and various other papers. revocation :: n. 1) mutual cancellation of a contract by the par ... c offenses. See also: contract will living will :: n. also called "a durable power of attorney," it i ... upport. See also: power of attorney writ of coram nobis :: : (writ of core-uhm noh-bis) n. from Latin for "in ... ment if known at the time of trial. notary public :: n. a person authorized by the state in which the p ... he state which appoints the notary. manslaughter :: n. the unlawful killing of another person without ... laughter. See also: homicide murder on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent reformation :: n. the correction or change of an existing documen ... neral partner sues for reformation. in propria persona :: adj. from Latin "for one's self," acting on one's ... client and an ass for an attorney." on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred. executive privilege :: n. a claim by the President or another high offici ... the Watergate scandal (1973-1974). adjuster :: n. an employee (usually a non-lawyer) of an insura ... e company in approving settlements. fee :: n. 1) absolute title in land, from old French, fie ... See also: attorney's fee fee simple writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate special prosecutor :: n. an attorney from outside of the government sele ... Robert Bork finally discharged Cox. status conference :: n. a pre-trial meeting of attorneys before a judge ... g a trial date. See also: discovery refresh one's memory :: v. to use a document, exhibit or previous testimon ... it is genuine). See also: testimony information :: n. an accusation or criminal charge brought by the ... Jury indictment preliminary hearing file :: 1) v. to deposit with the clerk of the court a wri ... rrespondence and notes on the case. substitute in :: v. to take over a case from another lawyer, which ... See also: substitution of attorney opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified. closing :: n. the final step in the sale and purchase of real ... company, escrow holder or attorney. substitution :: n. putting one person in place of another, in part ... See also: substitution of attorney clerk :: n. 1) an official or employee who handles the busi ... stocking shelves, or counter sales. informed consent :: n. agreement to do something or to allow something ... . See also: consent Miranda warning opening statement :: n. the explanation by the attorneys for both sides ... rgument. See also: closing argument class action :: n. a lawsuit filed by one or more people on behalf ... ees usually require court approval. marital deduction :: n. an estate tax deduction allowed a surviving spo ... community property estate tax trust prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment caption :: n. the first section of any written legal pleading ... to the exact format of the caption. closing argument :: n. the final argument by an attorney on behalf of ... . See also: opening statement trial stay of execution :: n. a court-ordered delay in inflicting the death p ... g the death penalty. See also: stay subchapter S corporation :: n. the choice by a small corporation to be treated ... ing attorney. See also: corporation executive order :: n. a President's or Governor's declaration which h ... the Congress or state legislature. 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 actionable :: adj. when enough facts or circumstances exist to m ... ction lawsuit malicious prosecution ad hoc :: adj. Latin shorthand meaning "for this purpose onl ... pecially able to argue a key point. lien :: n. any official claim or charge against property o ... ord's lien mechanic's lien mortgage champerty :: n. an agreement between the party suing in a lawsu ... . See also: barratry contingent fee challenge for cause :: n. a request that a prospective juror be dismissed ... remptory challenge venire voir dire submitted :: n. the conclusion of all evidence and argument in ... , no further argument is permitted. prosecute :: v. 1) in criminal law, to charge a person with a c ... rney General prosecution prosecutor charge :: n. 1) in a criminal case, the specific statement o ... trial judge. 3) a fee for services. age of consent :: n. See also: legal age majority ... n. See also: legal age majority final settlement :: n. an agreement reached by the parties to a lawsui ... rneys present. See also: settlement failure of issue :: n. when someone dies leaving no children or other ... ildren or other direct descendants. law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law stipulation :: n. an agreement, usually on a procedural matter, b ... g, signed and filed with the court. law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. professional negligence :: n. See also: malpractice ... n. See also: malpractice indigent :: 1) n. a person so poor and needy that he/she canno ... person who is very poor and needy. challenge :: n. the right of each attorney in a jury trial to r ... ess. See also: peremptory challenge indictment :: n. a charge of a felony (serious crime) voted by a ... ictable offense preliminary hearing accusation :: n. 1) in legal terms accusation means officially c ... im of wrongdoing by another person. incompetent :: adj. 1) referring to a person who is not able to m ... n incompetency incompetent evidence rights :: n. 1) plural of right, which is the collection of ... evidence. See also: Miranda warning incompetency :: n. the condition of lacking the ability to handle ... and/or represented by an attorney. marked for identification :: adj. documents or objects presented during a trial ... exhibit lay a foundation objection findings of fact :: n. See also: finding ... n. See also: finding civil calendar :: n. the list of lawsuits (cases) that are approachi ... y sent to trial. See also: calendar Solicitor General :: n. the chief trial attorney in the federal Departm ... Attorney General in the Department. cross-examination :: n. the opportunity for the attorney (or an unrepre ... examination testimony trial witness limited partnership :: n. a special type of partnership which is very com ... mited liability partner partnership gag order :: n. a judge's order prohibiting the attorneys and t ... st day in office, January 22, 1993. power :: n. the right, authority and ability to take some a ... g legal rights and many other acts. sealed verdict :: n. the decision of a jury when there is a delay in ... reconvenes. See also: jury verdict unlawful assembly :: n. the act of assembling for the purpose of starti ... gton and Chicago in the late 1960s. revenue ruling :: n. a published opinion of the Internal Revenue Ser ... evenue ruling. See also: income tax cross-complaint :: n. after a complaint has been filed against a defe ... g prayer service of process summons cumis counsel :: n. an attorney employed by a defendant in a lawsui ... fendant be approved by the company. continuing objection :: n. an objection to certain questions or testimony ... ional distress. See also: objection judgment notwithstanding the verdict :: (N.O.V.) n. reversal of a jury's verdict by the tr ... veredicto. See also: N.O.V. verdict frivolous :: adj. referring to a legal move in a lawsuit clearl ... ing the courts to resolve disputes. harmless error :: n. an error by a judge in the conduct of a trial w ... ar to be harmless." See also: error judicial discretion :: n. the power of the judge to make decisions on som ... iscretion beyond his/her authority. liberty :: n. freedom from restraint and the power to follow ... the benefit of the general public. continuance :: n. a postponement of a date of a trial, hearing or ... continuances to discourage delays. contingent fee :: n. a fee to a lawyer which will be due and payable ... epend on the outcome are unethical. criminal calendar :: n. the list of criminal cases to be called in cour ... e plea preliminary hearing sentence ultra vires :: (uhl-trah veye-rehz) adj. Latin for "beyond powers ... it is issued. See also: corporation court :: n. 1) the judge, as in "The court rules in favor o ... cost and wait of full court trials. public use :: n. the only purpose for which private property can ... e also: condemnation eminent domain riot :: n. 1) technically a turbulent and violent disturba ... to unlawful possession of firearms. non-discretionary trust :: n. a trust in which the trustee is directed to inv ... ower in the matter. See also: trust court costs :: n. fees for expenses that the courts pass on to at ... ee also: cost bill prevailing party pardon :: 1) v. to use the executive power of a Governor or ... also: amnesty commutation reprieve posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law sanction :: n. 1) a financial penalty imposed by a judge on a ... ction." See also: contempt of court copyright :: 1) n. the exclusive right of the author or creator ... plagiarism public domain trademark treason :: n. the crime of betraying one's country, defined i ... nment. See also: espionage sedition general appearance :: n. an attorney's representation of a client in cou ... case. See also: special appearance Grand Jury :: n. a jury in each county or federal court district ... arge indictment preliminary hearing star chamber proceedings :: n. any judicial or quasi-judicial action, trial or ... ate 1960s. See also: kangaroo court Supreme Court :: n. 1) the highest court in the United States, whic ... rt in other states. See also: court joint venture :: n. an enterprise entered into by two or more peopl ... s terminated. See also: partnership fraud :: n. the intentional use of deceit, a trick or some ... audulent conveyance intrinsic fraud sidebar :: n. 1) physically, an area in front of or next to t ... See also: approach the bench bench home rule :: n. the power of a local city or county to set up i ... state funds for local improvements. overrule :: v. 1) to reject an attorney's objection to a quest ... : appellate court objection sustain in kind :: adj. referring to payment, distribution or substit ... . See also: distribution trust will complaint :: n. the first document filed with the court (actual ... g prayer service of process summons injunctive relief :: n. a court-ordered act or prohibition against an a ... t injunction restraining order writ compromise :: 1) n. an agreement between opposing parties to set ... some demands. See also: settlement representation :: n. 1) the act of being another's agent. 2) acting ... ns or in court. See also: represent small claims court :: n. a division of most municipal, city or other low ... od example of a small claims court. executive clemency :: n. the power of a President in federal criminal ca ... ernor. See also: commutation pardon speaking demurrer :: n. an attempt to introduce evidence during a heari ... the operation." See also: demurrer special appearance :: n. the representation by an attorney of a person i ... anged. See also: general appearance Federal Tort Claims Act :: n. a statute (1948) which removed the power of the ... diction to federal district courts. fresh pursuit :: n. immediate chase of a suspected criminal by a la ... hot pursuit. See also: hot pursuit comment :: n. a statement made by a judge or an attorney duri ... e rung, cannot be unrung," applies. commingling :: n. the act of mixing the funds belonging to one pa ... rust accounts for funds of another. defense :: n. 1) a general term for the effort of an attorney ... tiff. See also: affirmative defense sharp practice :: n. actions by a lawyer using misleading statements ... e bar association or by the courts. amend :: v. to alter or change by adding, subtracting, or s ... mended pleading statute stipulation confidential relation :: n. a relationship in which one person has confiden ... remely obvious. See also: fiduciary plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea interstate commerce :: n. commercial trade, business, movement of goods o ... and the I.C.C. may soon be history. 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 service :: n. 1) paid work by another person, either by contr ... ersonal services service of process service by mail :: n. mailing legal pleadings to opposing attorneys o ... attorney by mail. See also: service settle :: v. to resolve a lawsuit without a final court judg ... rior to trial. See also: settlement confess :: v. in criminal law, to voluntarily state that one ... Miranda warning self-incrimination paralegal :: n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiri ... h less than that for the attorneys. hostile witness :: n. technically an "adverse witness" in a trial who ... so: adverse witness leading witness lis pendens :: (lease pen-dense) n. Latin for "a suit pending," a ... ob can be penalized by court order. hometowned :: adv. legalese for a lawyer or client suffering dis ... orneys over those from out of town. request :: 1) v. to ask or demand a judge to act (such as iss ... n. the act of asking or demanding. settlement :: n. the resolution of a lawsuit (or of a legal disp ... ult in settlement. See also: settle pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead finding :: n. the determination of a factual question vital ( ... e case. See also: conclusion of law deposition :: n. the taking and recording of testimony of a witn ... See also: deponent depose discovery judge :: 1) n. an official with the authority and responsib ... ice justice of the peace magistrate legal aid society :: n. an organization formed to assist persons who ha ... bar association. See also: pro bono judge advocate :: n. a military officer with legal training who has ... ourt-martial judge advocate general transcript :: n. the written record of all proceedings, includin ... unless transcription is requested. objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion. evidence :: n. every type of proof legally presented at trial ... material object objection relevant control :: 1) n. the power to direct, manage, oversee and/or ... . to exercise the power of control. Queen's Bench :: n. 1) the highest court in Great Britain during th ... include close to 50 percent women. probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege lease :: 1) n. a written agreement in which the owner of pr ... triple net lease unlawful detainer leading the witness :: n. asking a question during a trial or deposition ... n hostile witness leading objection probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will pro tem :: 1) adj. short for the Latin pro tempore, temporari ... as "Sam Collins is Pro Tem today." motion for dismissal :: (non-suit) n. application by a defendant in a laws ... otion for nonsuit. See also: motion voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge pro hac vice :: : (proh hock vee-chay) prep. Latin for "this time ... association with a local attorney. co-trustee :: n. a trustee of a trust when there is more than on ... act alone. See also: trust trustee barratry :: n. creating legal business by stirring up disputes ... ent he/she has no legitimate claim. title report :: n. the written analysis of the status of title to ... lso: abstract title title insurance bar examination :: n. the examination given in each state by either t ... n that district. See also: attorney barrister :: n. in the United States a fancy name for a lawyer ... ome barristers. See also: solicitor examination :: n. 1) the questioning of a witness by an attorney. ... irect examination testimony witness devolution :: n. 1) the transfer of title to real property by th ... nment to another. See also: devolve exception :: n. 1) a formal objection during trial ("We take ex ... cluded. See also: exception in deed 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. divorce :: 1) n. the termination of a marriage by legal actio ... y separate property spousal support ex parte :: (ex par-tay, but popularly, ex party) adj. Latin m ... and place of any ex parte hearing. joint and several :: adj. referring to a debt or a judgment for neglige ... ution contributory negligence joint warrant :: 1) n. an order (writ) of a court which directs a l ... e search and seizure search warrant bankruptcy :: n. a federal system of statutes and courts which p ... y proceedings trustee in bankruptcy title search :: n. the examination of county records for the prope ... e escrow lien title title insurance ex rel. :: conj. abbreviation for Latin ex relatione, meaning ... . Archie Johnson v. Hardy Products. esquire :: n. a form of address showing that someone is an at ... or barristers, sheriffs and judges. trial :: n. the examination of facts and law presided over ... at a hearing held at a later time. approach the bench :: v. an attorney's movement from the counsel table t ... ake a recess to go to the restroom. undue influence :: n. the amount of pressure which one uses to force ... ounder. See also: will will contest promissory note :: n. a written promise by a person (variously called ... lso: interest obligee obligor usury mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial arbitration :: n. a mini-trial, which may be for a lawsuit ready ... tance of the arbitrator's decision. authority :: n. permission, a right coupled with the power to d ... rize ostensible authority principal arbitrator :: n. one who conducts an arbitration, and serves as ... he other two. See also: arbitration apparent authority :: n. the appearance of being the agent of another (e ... e also: agency ostensible authority appearance :: n. the act of a party or an attorney showing up in ... neral appearance special appearance American Bar Association :: n. the largest organization of American lawyers, w ... go, IL 60611; tel.: (312) 988-5522. prosecutor :: n. generic term for the government's attorney in a ... ee also: Attorney General prosecute prosecution :: n. 1) in criminal law, the government attorney cha ... se). See also: prosecute prosecutor amicus curiae :: n. Latin for "friend of the court," a party or an ... party's presentation to the court. minutes :: n. 1) the written record of meetings, particularly ... court reporter if recorded at all. antitrust laws :: n. acts adopted by Congress to outlaw or restrict ... so: price fixing restraint of trade misdemeanor :: n. a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or coun ... tion are felonies. See also: felony argumentative :: adj. the characterization of a question asked by t ... oody glove just walked over there?" authorize :: v. to officially empower someone to act. See also: ... someone to act. See also: authority leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection constitution :: n. the fundamental, underlying document which esta ... ts common law constitutional rights jury :: n. one of the remarkable innovations of the Englis ... hallenge sequester venire voir dire process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons escrow agent :: n. a person or entity holding documents and funds ... on local practice. See also: escrow motion :: n. a formal request made to a judge for an order o ... g, an oral motion may be permitted. vexatious litigation :: n. filing a lawsuit with the knowledge that it has ... lous malicious prosecution sanction common law :: n. the traditional unwritten law of England, based ... plied without reference to statute. leading :: 1) v. short for "leading the witness," in which th ... tness leading the witness objection public defender :: n. an elected or appointed public official (usuall ... to convicted indigents for appeals. arrest warrant :: n. a judge's order to law enforcement officers to ... ommitted a crime. See also: warrant justice :: n. 1) fairness. 2) moral rightness. 3) a scheme or ... e appellate courts. See also: court bank :: n. 1) an officially chartered institution empowere ... erred to as "in bank" or "en banc." canon law :: n. laws and regulations over ecclesiastical (churc ... nduct with no religious connection. jury selection :: n. the means by which a jury is chosen, with a pan ... y panel peremptory challenge venire errors and omissions :: n. short hand for malpractice insurance which give ... issions which amount to negligence. irrelevant :: adj. not important, pertinent, or germane to the m ... ce immaterial incompetent objection trader :: in U.S. income tax law, a person who deals in prop ... ultation with a C.P.A. or attorney. exhibit :: n. 1) a document or object (including a photograph ... ncorporated into the main document. nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi. innocent :: adj. without guilt (not guilty). Usually the plea ... also: arraignment plea plea bargain tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ summation :: n. the final argument of an attorney at the close ... 's case. See also: closing argument enabling clause :: n. a provision in a new statute which empowers a p ... ect, including making expenditures. adverse witness :: n. a witness in a trial who is found by the judge ... r the opposition. See also: witness notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence insurance :: n. a contract (insurance policy) in which the insu ... t clause Workers' Compensation Acts interrogatories :: n. a set of written questions to a party to a laws ... ing. See also: deposition discovery equity :: n. 1) a venerable group of rights and procedures t ... ry enjoin equitable injunction writ eminent domain :: n. the power of a governmental entity (federal, st ... ngs. See also: condemn condemnation discovery :: n. the entire efforts of a party to a lawsuit and ... ee also: deposition interrogatories ejusdem generis :: (eh-youse-dem generous) v adj. Latin for "of the s ... t was of land-based transportation. insanity :: n. mental illness of such a severe nature that a p ... M'Naughten rule temporary insanity extraordinary fees :: n. attorneys' fees claimed, usually in the adminis ... n. See also: attorney's fee probate note :: n. a promissory note, a written statement of debt ... the note. See also: promissory note expert witness :: n. a person who is a specialist in a subject, ofte ... sitions. See also: expert testimony priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain prevailing party :: n. the winner in a lawsuit. Many contracts, leases ... ed before or after trial has begun. insufficient evidence :: n. a finding (decision) by a trial judge or an app ... l court. See also: evidence finding 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 reciprocity :: n. mutual exchange of privileges between states, n ... any large states refuse to give it. direct examination :: n. the first questioning of a witness during a tri ... nation deposition testimony witness executor :: n. the person appointed to administer the estate o ... sed decedent executrix probate will instruction :: n. an explanation of the law governing a case whic ... fore the jury begins deliberations. excusable neglect :: n. a legitimate excuse for the failure of a party ... See also: default default judgment advisory opinion :: n. an opinion stated by a judge or a court upon th ... o: actual controversy friendly suit injunction :: n. a writ (order) issued by a court ordering someo ... t. See also: injunctive relief writ witness stand :: n. a chair at the end of the judge's bench on the ... estimony clearly. See also: witness disbarment :: n. the ultimate discipline of an attorney, which i ... ation and/or cure. See also: disbar privileged communication :: n. statements and conversations made under circums ... See also: attorney-client privilege object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection rape :: 1) n. the crime of sexual intercourse (with actual ... See also: date rape statutory rape preferred stock :: n. a class of shares of stock in a corporation whi ... on stock corporation dividend stock petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. permissive :: adj. 1) referring to any act which is allowed by c ... ting contrary to others' standards. permit :: 1) v. to allow by silence, agreement or giving a l ... f public revenue. See also: license price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate make :: v. 1) to create something. 2) to sign a check, pro ... xchange check maker promissory note personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty petition :: 1) n. a formal written request to a court for an o ... dent. See also: divorce motion writ pretermitted heir :: n. the child of a person who has written a will in ... cified $10,000 each. See also: heir preferred dividend :: n. a payment of a corporation's profits to holders ... of stock. See also: preferred stock presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note property damage :: n. injury to real or personal property through ano ... l value. See also: damages property preliminary injunction :: n. a court order made in the early stages of a law ... ent injunction temporary injunction property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance 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 prenuptial agreement :: n. also called an antenuptial agreement, a written ... been "taken" by a previous spouse. premises :: n. 1) in real estate, land and the improvements on ... t). See also: real estate structure proprietor :: n. the owner of anything, but particularly the own ... siness operated by that individual. proprietary rights :: n. those rights which go with ownership of real pr ... hip of real property or a business. promotional stock :: n. stock issued in a newly formed corporation and ... assets or money. See also: promoter perjurer :: n. a person who intentionally lies while under an ... alse information. See also: perjury permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information 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. promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription permanent injunction :: n. a final order of a court that a person or entit ... ary injunction temporary injunction perjury :: n. the crime of intentionally lying after being du ... ly made a mistake or misunderstood. prescription :: n. the method of acquiring an easement upon anothe ... ty. See also: prescriptive easement permanent disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts promoter :: n. a person who puts together a business, particul ... y effort and not by assets or cash. promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property private parts :: n. men's or women's genitalia, excluding a woman's ... duction and/or sale of pornography. preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy post :: v. 1) to place a notice on the entrance or a promi ... or recording a payment. 4) to mail. post mortem :: n. Latin for "after death," an examination of a de ... alled an autopsy. See also: coroner private nuisance :: n. the interference with an individual's peaceful ... See also: nuisance public nuisance possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene 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 pro rata :: (proh rat-ah or proh ray-tah) adj. from Latin for ... e year in which he/she holds title. possess :: v. to own, have title to, occupy, physically hold ... ng the estate. See also: possession preemptive right :: n. the right of a shareholder in a corporation to ... also: corporation shareholder stock 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. precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract precedent :: 1) n. a prior reported opinion of an appeals court ... to perform. See also: stare decisis practice :: 1) n. custom or habit as shown by repeated action, ... s "she practices law in St. Louis." private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement postdated check :: n. a check delivered now with a written date in th ... livery of a bad check was criminal. preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other. predecease :: v. to die before someone else, as "if my brother, ... estate I give to his son, Eugene." pour over will :: n. a will of a person who has already executed a t ... invalid trust. See also: trust will make one whole :: v. to pay or award damages sufficient to put the p ... fault of another. See also: damages political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues. privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights. pink slip :: n. 1) slang for official automobile registration c ... being fired or laid off from a job. proceeding :: n. any legal filing, hearing, trial and/or judgmen ... edings," as in "legal proceedings." plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution process server :: n. a person who serves (delivers) legal papers in ... table. See also: service of process product liability :: n. the responsibility of manufacturers, distributo ... e known. See also: warrant warranty picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation pilferage :: n. a crime of theft of little things, usually from ... ipments or baggage. See also: theft procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made. plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone). probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure pledge :: v. to deposit personal property as security for a ... ise to do something. See also: pawn 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 plead :: v. 1) in civil lawsuits and petitions, to file any ... al conduct. See also: plea pleading principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner plea :: n. 1) in criminal law, the response by an accused ... raignment plead preliminary hearing probative value :: n. evidence which is sufficiently useful to prove ... prior actions. See also: probative prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege par :: n. 1) an equal level. 2) the face value of a stock ... common stock preferred stock stock 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 may :: v. a choice to act or not, or a promise of a possi ... sion or regulation. See also: shall next friend :: n. a person (often a relative) who voluntarily hel ... filed. See also: guardian ad litem 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 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 nolo contendere :: (no-low kahn-ten-durr-ray) n. Latin for "I will no ... f no contest." See also: no contest net estate :: n. the remaining estate of a person who has died, ... alue. See also: estate tax gift tax mayhem :: 1) n. the criminal act of disabling, disfiguring o ... so: aggravated assault assault maim negative pregnant :: n. a denial of an allegation in which a person act ... suse, just the amount and the date. necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party natural person :: n. a real human being, as distinguished from a cor ... ated at law as a fictitious person. natural law :: n. 1) standards of conduct derived from traditiona ... eated by mankind through the state. negligence :: n. failure to exercise the care toward others whic ... gence per se res ipsa loquitur tort negligence per se :: (purr say) n. negligence due to the violation of a ... riving. See also: negligence per se 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 McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning non-conforming use :: n. the existing use (residential, commercial, agri ... eneral plan grandfathered in zoning non-contestability clause :: n. an insurance policy provision which requires th ... claim is made by the policyholder. nuisance :: n. the unreasonable, unwarranted and/or unlawful u ... evening). See also: public nuisance nugatory :: adj. of no force or effect; invalid. Example: a st ... unconstitutional is a nugatory law. Massachusetts Trust :: n. a business in which the investors give manageme ... provide for eventual distribution. noxious :: adj. harmful to health, often referring to nuisanc ... alth, often referring to nuisances. 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. 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 marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors. novation :: n. agreement of parties to a contract to substitut ... . See also: accord and satisfaction master :: n. 1) employer, in the area of law known as "maste ... ter and servant respondeat superior 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 non-feasance :: n. the failure of an agent (employee) to perform a ... . See also: malfeasance misfeasance non-contiguous :: adj. referring to two or more parcels of real prop ... l property which are not connected. 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. notorious possession :: n. occupation of real property or holding personal ... e is as if the person is the owner. notice to quit :: n. the notice given by a landlord (owner) to a ten ... h-to-month notice unlawful detainer master and servant :: n. the body of law, including statutes and legal d ... lso: employment respondeat superior mechanic's lien :: n. the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, ar ... ll sue for the debt. See also: lien N.O.V. :: adj. shorthand acronym of Latin for non obstante v ... notwithstanding the verdict verdic M'Naughten rule :: n. a traditional "right and wrong" test of legal i ... temporary insanity Twinkie defense mesne :: : (mean, with a silent s) adj. from Norman French ... e profits." See also: mesne profits mitigating circumstances :: n. in criminal law, conditions or happenings which ... ity heat of passion Twinkie defense mistake :: n. 1) an error in comprehending facts, meaning of ... time. See also: contract rescission modification :: n. a change in an existing court order or judgment ... terms of child support and custody. modus operandi :: (mode-us ah-purr-and-ee or ah-purr-and-eye) n. fro ... es to disguise a fraudulent scheme. monopoly :: n. a business or inter-related group of businesses ... ust laws license restraint of trade merchantable :: adj. a product of a high enough quality to make it ... taminated or flawed. See also: sale merger :: n. 1) in corporate law, the joining together of tw ... and taking one, and wife the other. molestation :: n. the crime of sexual acts with children up to th ... of rape. See also: pedophilia rape misrepresentation :: n. the crime of misstating facts to obtain money, ... etenses." See also: false pretenses misjoinder :: n. the inclusion of parties (plaintiffs or defenda ... ent transactions. See also: joinder ministerial act :: n. an act, particularly of a governmental employee ... exercising any individual judgment. mining claim :: n. a description by boundaries of real property in ... g within a specific period of time. military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate metes and bounds :: (meets and bounds) n. a surveyor's description of ... of a parcel or lot are first drawn. minority :: n. 1) in voting, a side with less than half the vo ... See also: legal age majority minor Miranda warning :: n. the requirement, also called the Miranda rule, ... me such a suspect? See also: rights misfeasance :: n. management of a business, public office or othe ... n of the law. See also: malfeasance misappropriation :: n. the intentional, illegal use of the property or ... mbezzlement fiduciary larceny theft misadventure :: n. a death due to unintentional accident without a ... me. See also: homicide manslaughter mirror wills :: n. the wills of a husband and wife which are ident ... d each names the other as executor. monument :: n. 1) an established landmark which a surveyor use ... torn down or substantially altered. moot :: adj. 1) unsettled, open to argument or debatable, ... st. See also: moot court moot point motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike motion in limine :: (lim-in-nay) n. Latin for "threshold," a motion ma ... o: in limine Miranda warning motion memorandum :: n. 1) a brief writing, note, summary or outline. 2 ... r "The decision below is affirmed." mental anguish :: n. mental suffering which includes fright, feeling ... See also: damages mental suffering motion to suppress :: n. a motion (usually on behalf of a criminal defen ... eshold." See also: motion in limine motive :: n. in criminal investigation the probable reason a ... is not necessary to prove a crime. murder :: n. the killing of a human being by a sane person, ... premeditation second degree murder mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court multifarious :: adj., adv. reference to a lawsuit in which either ... ed misjoinder. See also: misjoinder mental cruelty :: n. a term, rapidly going out of fashion and out of ... history. See also: cruelty divorce mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code moral turpitude :: n. gross violation of standards of moral conduct, ... r penalty for a criminal defendant. 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 moot court :: n. law school exercise in which students argue bot ... fferent law schools. See also: moot moratorium :: n. 1) any suspension of activity, particularly vol ... to normal activities and earnings. mortgage :: n. a document in which the owner pledges his/her/i ... losure notice of default trust deed 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. mortgagee :: n. the person or business making a loan that is se ... money. See also: mortgage mortgagor obscene :: adj., adv. a highly subjective reference to materi ... en I see it." See also: pornography marriage :: n. the joining of a male and female in matrimony b ... of time without legal formalities. passenger :: n. a rider who has paid a fare on a train, bus, ai ... also: common carrier guest statute party wall :: n. a wall shared by two adjoining premises which i ... the property of one of the parties. party :: n. 1) one of the participants in a lawsuit or othe ... y real party in interest respondent partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner malice :: n. a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a ... cution murder public figure slander passion :: n. See also: heat of passion ... n. See also: heat of passion malfeasance :: n. intentionally doing something either legally or ... sponsibility. See also: misfeasance 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 passive :: adj. referring to being inactive. A "passive trust ... ment and interest on bank accounts. malice aforethought :: n. 1) the conscious intent to cause death or great ... : first degree murder malice murder partner :: n. 1) one of the co-owners and investors in a "par ... ner limited partnership partnership parol evidence rule :: n. if there is evidence in writing (such as a sign ... or contradict the written document. parody :: n. the humorous use of an existing song, play, or ... l significance. See also: copyright malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum malum prohibitum :: (mal-uhm prohibit-uhm) adj. Latin meaning "wrong d ... lso: malum in se white collar crime parole :: n. 1) the release of a convicted criminal defendan ... sed he will not take up arms again. partial breach :: n. the failure to meet a term of a contract which ... g in the missing or expected items. partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. participate :: v. to invest and then receive a part or share, as ... he estate of a person who has died. partial verdict :: n. in a criminal trial, the result when the jury f ... re other charges. See also: verdict partial disability :: n. the result of an injury which permanently reduc ... erson's normal functioning is gone. patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent patent pending :: n. often abbreviated to "pat. pend." or "pat. pend ... yet been granted. See also: patent per :: prep. from Latin for "by means of" or simply, "by" ... (by day) or "per capita" (by head). penitentiary :: n. a state or federal prison in which convicts are ... mission of major crimes (felonies). penalty :: n. 1) in criminal law, a money fine or forfeiture ... contractor fails to complete a job. peer review :: n. an examination and evaluation of the performanc ... claiming damages due to negligence. per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. per curiam :: adj. Latin for "by the court," defining a decision ... dentified as the specif- ic author. perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien 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 per diem :: adj. or n. Latin for "per day," it is short for pa ... or fees of an employee or an agent. peer :: n. an equal. A "jury of one's peers," to which cri ... eria. See also: jury of one's peers peeping tom :: n. a person who stealthily peeks into windows, hol ... n the basis of invasion of privacy. 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 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 payment in full :: n. the giving of all funds due to another. This la ... ee accepts the payment as complete. pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape peculation :: n. misappropriation of public (government) funds o ... roperty. See also: misappropriation peace bond :: n. a bond required as part of a court order to gua ... ee also: injunction stay away order parish :: n. 1) a geographic area served by a church (partic ... overnmental equivalent of a county. parental neglect :: n. a crime consisting of acts or omissions of a pa ... usive or sexually predatory person. on the stand :: prep. testifying during a trial, in which the witn ... troom and behind a knee-high panel. on or about :: prep. a phrase referring to a date or place used i ... reets:." See also: charge complaint on file :: prep. having been formally filed with the clerk of ... eading is "on file." See also: file omnibus clause :: n. 1) an automobile insurance policy clause which ... he beneficiaries named in the will. open court :: n. the conduct of judicial proceedings (trials, he ... which are usually held in chambers. option :: n. a right to purchase property or require another ... ng or upon expiration of the lease. order to show cause :: n. a judge's written mandate that a party appear i ... vernmental agency. See also: O.S.C. order :: 1) n. every direction or mandate of a judge or a c ... defendant. See also: judge judgment oral contract :: n. an agreement made with spoken words and either ... itten. See also: agreement contract or :: conj. either; in the alternative. It is often vita ... n," both must sign to change title. omission :: n. 1) failure to perform an act agreed to, where t ... of contract negligence reformation marital rights :: n. an old-fashioned expression for the rights of a ... also: consortium loss of consortium occupation :: n. 1) fairly permanent trade, profession, employme ... of real property or use of a thing. occupant :: n. 1) someone living in a residence or using premi ... gain ownership. See also: occupancy occupancy :: n. 1) living in or using premises, as a tenant or ... ining ownership. See also: occupant marketable title :: n. the title to real property which has no encumbr ... e. See also: contract real property occupational disease :: n. an illness resulting from long-term employment ... tion for a work-related disability. market value :: n. the price which a seller of property would rece ... ich are often called "comparables." occupy the field :: v. to preempt (monopolize) an area of statutory la ... ertain topics. See also: preemption maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty occupational hazard :: n. a danger or risk inherent in certain employment ... e of death or injury while at work. Mann Act :: n. a federal statute making it a crime to transpor ... is five years in a federal prison. original jurisdiction :: n. the authority of a court to hold a trial, as di ... l judgments. See also: jurisdiction pander :: 1) v. to solicit customers for a prostitute. 2) n. ... ons or favors. See also: prostitute palimony :: n. a substitute for alimony in cases in which the ... the relationship. See also: alimony pain and suffering :: n. the physical and mental distress suffered from ... l damages special damages suffering paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader panel :: n. the list of people selected to appear for jury ... or jury duty. See also: jury venire paramount title :: n. a right to real property which prevails over an ... n's claim of title. See also: title parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate parcel :: n. a defined piece of real estate, usually resulti ... See also: real estate real property 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 mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder manifest :: 1) adj., adv. completely obvious or evident. 2) n. ... ritten list of goods in a shipment. ostensible agent :: n. a person who has been given the appearance of b ... rent authority ostensible authority ouster :: n. 1) the wrongful dispossession (putting out) of ... ainst his/her expectations or will. outbuilding :: n. a structure not connected with the primary resi ... arn, cabana, pool house or cottage. overt act :: n. in criminal law, an action which might be innoc ... terrorist bombing of that building. overcharge :: v. 1) to charge more than a posted or advertised p ... osecutor to intimidate the accused. output contract :: n. an agreement in which a producer agrees to sell ... h it may have to store away a glut. perform :: v. 1) to fulfill one's obligations under a contrac ... court order. See also: performance res judicata :: : (rayz judy-cot-ah) n. Latin for "the thing has b ... djudicata. See also: res adjudicata tax sale :: n. an auction sale of a taxpayer's property conduc ... government to collect unpaid taxes. temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction tax return :: n. the form to be filed with a taxing authority by ... able to the taxpayer. See also: tax 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 temporary insanity :: n. in a criminal prosecution, a defense by the acc ... diminished capacity insanity intent tenancy :: n. the right to occupy real property permanently, ... rety tenancy in common tenant title tenancy in common :: n. title to property (usually real property, but i ... on. See also: joint tenancy tenancy tender :: 1) v. to present to another person an unconditiona ... he tender. See also: delivery offer tenancy by the entirety :: n. joint ownership of title by husband and wife, i ... ee also: community property 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 tax :: n. a governmental assessment (charge) upon propert ... unified estate and gift tax use tax taking the Fifth :: n. the refusal to testify on the ground that the t ... ifth." See also: self-incrimination 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. supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue. 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 tentative trust :: n. a bank account deposited in the name of the dep ... hdrawn at any time. See also: trust tenure :: n. 1) in real property, the right to possess the p ... e a probationary period has passed. title insurance :: n. a policy issued by an insurance company guarant ... : chain of title title title search toll :: v. 1) to delay, suspend or hold off the effect of ... bridge or take passage on a ferry. title abstract :: n. a history of the chain of title. See also: abst ... chain of title. See also: abstract title :: n. 1) ownership of real property or personal prope ... ink slip real property title search timely :: adj. within the time required by statute, court ru ... ed on the 61st day is not "timely." tontine :: n. a rare agreement among several persons who agre ... e the remaining assets and profits. tort :: n. from French for "wrong," a civil wrong or wrong ... nce slander trespass wrongful death trade name :: n. a name of a business or one of its products whi ... t is different. See also: trademark trade secret :: n. a process, method, plan, formula or other infor ... e invention. See also: patent trade trade fixture :: n. a piece of equipment on or attached to the real ... uch damage. See also: fixture trade trade :: 1) n. a business or occupation for profit, particu ... rade fixture trade secret trademark tort claims act :: n. a federal or state act which, under certain con ... . See also: Federal Tort Claims Act 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. testamentary trust :: n. a trust created by the terms of a will. Example ... vivos trust living trust trust will testator :: n. a person who has written a will which is in eff ... me of his/her death. See also: will testamentary disposition :: n. how the terms of a will divide the testator's ( ... named beneficiaries. See also: 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." testatrix :: n. female form of testator, although distinguishin ... out of fashion. See also: testator theft :: n. the generic term for all crimes in which a pers ... rglary embezzlement larceny robbery 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 Thirty-day notice :: n. a notice by a landlord to a tenant on a month-t ... e also: landlord and tenant service 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 supra :: (sooh-prah) Latin for "above," in legal briefs and ... d as Guinn v. United States, supra. superseding cause :: n. the same as an "intervening cause" or "superven ... : intervening cause proximate cause state action :: n. in federal Civil Rights Acts, dating back to 18 ... for damages. See also: civil rights statutory rape :: n. sexual intercourse with a female below the lega ... majority minority molestation rape state :: n. 1) the federal or state government and any of i ... d States. 3) a nation's government. stare decisis :: : (stah-ree duh-sigh-sis) n. Latin for "to stand b ... pellate court lower court precedent standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction stay :: n. a court-ordered short-term delay in judicial pr ... r case. See also: stay of execution stock :: 1) n. inventory (goods) of a business meant for sa ... siness. See also: share shareholder stop and frisk :: n. a law enforcement officer's search for a weapon ... h search and seizure search warrant straw man :: n. 1) a person to whom title to property or a busi ... a trail will mislead hunting dogs). 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. stock certificate :: n. printed document which states the name, incorpo ... . See also: corporation share stock stakeholder :: n. a person having in his/her possession (holding) ... ment or agreement. See also: escrow spousal support :: n. payment for support of an ex-spouse (or a spous ... but two. See also: alimony divorce specific bequest :: n. the gift in a will of a certain article to a ce ... ce, Sophie." See also: bequest will specific devise :: n. the gift in a will of a certain piece of real e ... ther, David." See also: devise will special verdict :: n. the jury's decisions or findings of fact with t ... utation. See also: specific finding special master :: n. a person appointed by the court to carry out an ... ting to the judge. See also: master 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 specific legacy :: n. a gift in a will of a certain article or proper ... ecific bequest specific devise will spontaneous exclamation :: n. a sudden statement caused by the speaker having ... et hit the girl." See also: hearsay spot zoning :: n. a provision in a general plan which benefits a ... . See also: grandfathered in zoning spendthrift clause :: n. a provision in a trust or will that states that ... tly to Junior. See also: trust will speedy trial :: n. in criminal prosecutions, the right of a defend ... hurt by the waiver. See also: trial specific performance :: n. the right of a party to a contract to demand th ... artwork. See also: contract prayer strict construction :: (narrow construction) n. interpreting the Constitu ... See also: constitution construction strict liability :: n. automatic responsibility (without having to pro ... bility negligence res ipsa loquitur succession :: n. the statutory rules of inheritance of a dead pe ... istribution." See also: inheritance successive sentences :: n. in criminal law, the imposition of the penalty ... uld be 15 years. See also: sentence substituted service :: n. accomplishing service (delivery) of legal docum ... ee also: service service of process substantial performance :: n. in the law of contracts, fulfillment of the obl ... also: contract specific performance subscribe :: v. 1) to sign at the end of a document. The courts ... r periodical magazine or newspaper. suffering :: n. the pain, hurt, inconvenience, embarrassment an ... njury negligence pain and suffering sui generis :: (sooh-ee jen-ur-iss) n. Latin for "one of a kind," ... Latin for "one of a kind," unique. summary judgment :: n. a court order ruling that no factual issues rem ... tion summary adjudication of issues supersedeas :: (sooh-purr-said-ee-uhs) Latin for "you shall desis ... . See also: appeal court of appeals sum certain :: n. a specific amount stated in a contract or negot ... r redecoration of Williams' house." suit :: n. generic term for any filing of a complaint (or ... "suit in equity." See also: lawsuit suicide :: n. the intentional killing of oneself. Ironically, ... e manslaughter second degree murder subrogor :: n. a person or entity that transfers his/her/its l ... ges. See also: subrogation subrogee subrogee :: n. the person or entity that assumes the legal rig ... aid. See also: subrogation subrogor subject to :: adj. referring to the acquisition of title to real ... : assumption deed of trust mortgage sublease :: n. the lease to another of all or a portion of pre ... and sublease. See also: lease rent subcontractor :: n. a person or business which has a contract (as a ... ependent contractor mechanic's lien sua sponte :: : (sooh-uh spahn-tay) adj. Latin for "of one's own ... ot have jurisdiction over the case. strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store. subordination :: n. allowing a debt or claim which has priority to ... . See also: subordination agreement subordination agreement :: n. a written contract in which a lender who has se ... ty records. See also: subordination subrogation :: n. assuming the legal rights of a person for whom ... also: negligence subrogee 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 subpena :: (subpoena): (suh-pea-nah) n. an order of the court ... ubpena duces tecum subpoena witness trademark :: n. a distinctive design, picture, emblem, logo or ... ing trademark. See also: trade name transfer :: n. 1) the movement of property from one person or ... son or shipment to continue travel. widow's election :: n. the choice a widow makes between accepting what ... nt and distribution succession will will :: n. a written document which leaves the estate of t ... will and testament probate testator widow :: n. a woman whose husband died while she was marrie ... nefits traceable to the ex-husband. white collar crime :: n. a generic term for crimes involving commercial ... committed by "blue collar" workers. whiplash :: n. a common neck and/or back injury suffered in au ... r damages due to negligent driving. will contest :: n. a lawsuit challenging the validity of a will an ... so: in terrorem clause probate will wind up :: v. to liquidate (sell or dispose of) assets of a c ... r partnership. See also: winding up witness :: 1) n. a person who testifies under oath in a trial ... lso: deposition evidence trial will Workers' Compensation Acts :: n. state statutes which establish liability of emp ... rs' compensation insurance company. withdrawal :: n. 1) in criminal law, leaving a conspiracy to com ... count. See also: check renunciation wiretap :: n. using an electronic device to listen in on tele ... invasion of privacy probable cause winding up :: n. liquidating the assets of a corporation or part ... ration cy pres doctrine partnership wet reckless :: n. a plea to a charge of reckless driving which wa ... conviction. See also: plea bargain watered stock :: n. shares of stock of a corporation which have bee ... . See also: corporation share stock 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. voting trust :: n. a trust which solicits vote proxies of sharehol ... ation proxy shareholder stockholder waive :: v. to voluntarily give up something, including not ... the other state). See also: waiver warranty :: n. a written statement of good quality of merchand ... of the contract. See also: warrant waste :: n. 1) any damage to real property by a tenant whic ... ch may include poisonous effluents. ward :: n. 1) a person (usually a minor) who has a guardia ... ouncil district. See also: guardian wanton :: adj. 1) grossly negligent to the extent of being r ... sexually immoral and unrestrained. waiver :: n. the intentional and voluntary giving up of some ... ssed on the record. See also: waive Workmen's Compensation :: n. a former name for worker's compensation before ... isex title of the acts was adopted. World Court :: n. the Court of International Justice, founded by ... rd and to be bound by the decision. mediator :: n. a person who conducts mediation. A mediator is ... o: arbitration arbitrator mediation pro per :: adj. short for "propria persona," which is Latin f ... in propria persona propria persona litigant :: n. any party to a lawsuit. This means plaintiff, d ... ant, but not a witness or attorney. jurist :: n. although it means any attorney or legal scholar ... jurist popularly refers to a judge. house counsel :: n. any attorney who works only for a particular bu ... business. See also: general counsel proctor :: n. 1) in admiralty (maritime) law, an attorney. 2) ... ttorney. 2) person who keeps order. represent :: v. 1) to act as the agent for another. 2) to act a ... parties." See also: representation sustain :: v. in trial practice, for a judge to agree that an ... /she will "overrule" the objection. work product :: n. the writings, notes, memoranda, reports on conv ... ies to be employed by the attorney. solicitor :: n. an English attorney who may perform all legal s ... s or barristers. See also: attorney short cause :: n. a lawsuit which is estimated by the parties (us ... l be reset later as a "long cause." retainer :: n. the advance payment to an attorney for services ... e stuck with extensive unpaid fees. general counsel :: n. the chief attorney for a corporation, who is pa ... e counsel." See also: house counsel forensic :: 1) adj. from Latin forensis for "belonging to the ... in legal matters, including trials. zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |