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Dictionary of Law |
Founded: 1663 search :: v. 1) to examine another's premises (including a v ... e search and seizure search warrant stop and frisk :: n. a law enforcement officer's search for a weapon ... h search and seizure search warrant title search :: n. the examination of county records for the prope ... e escrow lien title title insurance warrant :: 1) n. an order (writ) of a court which directs a l ... e search and seizure search warrant seizure :: n. the taking by law enforcement officers of poten ... e search and seizure search warrant tainted evidence :: n. in a criminal trial, information which has been ... e search and seizure search warrant plain view doctrine :: n. the rule that a law enforcement officer may mak ... : search and seizure search warrant probable cause :: n. sufficient reason based upon known facts to bel ... of Rights search search and seizure Bill of Rights :: n. the first ten amendments to the federal Constit ... ved to the states or to the people. bait and switch :: n. a dishonest sales practice in which a business ... rants the costs of a separate suit. bench warrant :: n. a warrant issued by a judge, often to command s ... appear in court. See also: warrant exclusionary rule :: n. the rule that evidence secured by illegal means ... e poisonous tree motion to suppress arrest warrant :: n. a judge's order to law enforcement officers to ... ommitted a crime. See also: warrant constitutional rights :: n. rights given or reserved to the people by the U ... e also: Bill of Rights constitution warranty :: n. a written statement of good quality of merchand ... of the contract. See also: warrant implied warranty :: n. an assumption at law that products are "merchan ... er. See also: caveat emptor implied frisk :: v. quickly patting down the clothes of a possible ... k women and men officers frisk men. remand :: v. to send back. An appeals court may remand a cas ... ee also: appeal preliminary hearing information and belief :: n. a phrase often used in legal pleadings (complai ... nswer complaint declaration perjury memorandum :: n. 1) a brief writing, note, summary or outline. 2 ... r "The decision below is affirmed." mandamus :: (man-dame-us) n. Latin for "we order," a writ (mor ... mandamus. See also: writ of mandate assault and battery :: n. the combination of the two crimes of threat (as ... damages. See also: assault battery meet and confer :: n. a requirement of courts that before certain typ ... s which are freighted with emotion. master and servant :: n. the body of law, including statutes and legal d ... lso: employment respondeat superior mandatory :: adj., adv. absolutely demanded or required. ... v. absolutely demanded or required. implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing :: n. a general assumption of the law of contracts, t ... -long employment. See also: implied mandate :: n. 1) any mandatory order or requirement under sta ... See also: mandamus writ of mandate reasonable wear and tear :: n. commonly used in leases to limit the tenant's r ... ble wear and tear." See also: lease and :: conj. this little word is important in law, partic ... ds "or," but not if it reads "and." descent and distribution :: n. the system of laws which determine who will inh ... nt inheritance intestate succession direct and proximate cause :: n. the immediate reason damage was caused by an ac ... so: cause complaint proximate cause abstract of title :: n. the written report on a title search which show ... e also: chain of title title report privileges and immunities :: n. the fundamental rights that people enjoy in fre ... t impinge on constitutional rights. demand :: 1) v. to claim as a need, requirement or entitleme ... pay is made. See also: demand note joint and several :: adj. referring to a debt or a judgment for neglige ... ution contributory negligence joint cruel and unusual punishment :: n. governmental penalties against convicted crimin ... opted. See also: capital punishment unified estate and gift tax :: n. in federal estate taxes, the value of the estat ... turn. See also: estate tax gift tax covenant that runs with the land :: n. a promise contained in a deed to land or real e ... l future owners. See also: covenant disposing mind and memory :: n. the mental ability to understand in general wha ... ng a will. See also: competent will covenants, conditions and restrictions :: n. commonly called "CC and Rs," these are written ... ctive purchaser. See also: covenant unclean hands :: n. a legal doctrine which is a defense to a compla ... ough. See also: affirmative defense lewd and lascivious :: adj., adv. references to conduct which includes pe ... t exposure pornography prostitution Court of Customs and Patent Appeals :: n. a federal court established (1929) to hear appe ... lso: Customs Court patent trademark errors and omissions :: n. short hand for malpractice insurance which give ... issions which amount to negligence. free and clear :: adj. referring to the ownership of real property u ... the title has no claim against it. slander :: n. oral defamation, in which someone tells one or ... . See also: defamation fair comment savings and loan :: n. a banking and lending institution, chartered ei ... vings into the home finance market. full faith and credit :: n. the provision in Article IV, Section 1 of the U ... "foreign" (out-of-state) judgment. pain and suffering :: n. the physical and mental distress suffered from ... l damages special damages suffering sound mind and memory :: n. having an understanding of one's actions and re ... ee also: competent incompetent will cease and desist order :: n. an order of a court or government agency to a p ... ing which would damage the ecology. clear and present danger :: n. the doctrine established in an opinion written ... together of a lynch mob (assembly). on the stand :: prep. testifying during a trial, in which the witn ... troom and behind a knee-high panel. on demand :: adj. in a promissory note, a requirement that the ... demand note." See also: demand note clean hands doctrine :: n. a rule of law that a person coming to court wit ... ices. See also: affirmative defense clear and convincing evidence :: n. evidence that proves a matter by the "preponder ... See also: beyond a reasonable doubt share and share alike :: adj. referring to the equal division of a benefit ... among the three surviving nephews. panderer :: n. 1) a person who panders or solicits for a prost ... special interests. See also: pander Grand Jury :: n. a jury in each county or federal court district ... arge indictment preliminary hearing modus operandi :: (mode-us ah-purr-and-ee or ah-purr-and-eye) n. fro ... es to disguise a fraudulent scheme. payable on demand :: adj. a debt on a promissory note or bill of exchan ... e (party to whom the debt is owed). confession and avoidance :: n. when a defendant admits the allegations in a co ... tries to avoid their legal impact. hit and run :: n. the crime of a driver of a vehicle who is invol ... , and then walks back to the scene. Miranda warning :: n. the requirement, also called the Miranda rule, ... me such a suspect? See also: rights peremptory writ of mandate :: (or mandamus) n. a final order of a court to any g ... ve writ. See also: mandamus mandate breaking and entering :: n. 1) the criminal act of entering a residence or ... above. See also: burglary trespass building and loan :: n. another name for savings and loan association. ... payment. See also: savings and loan standard of care :: n. the watchfulness, attention, caution and pruden ... of care foreseeable risk negligence grand larceny :: n. the crime of theft of another's property (inclu ... f the loot. See also: larceny theft standing :: n. the right to file a lawsuit or file a petition ... so: actual controversy jurisdiction grand theft :: n. See also: grand larceny ... n. See also: grand larceny grandfather clause :: n. 1) a clause in a statute or zoning ordinance (p ... Such laws are now unconstitutional. metes and bounds :: (meets and bounds) n. a surveyor's description of ... of a parcel or lot are first drawn. tide lands :: n. land between the high and low tides, which is u ... ch fronts on the sea at that point. warranty deed :: n. a deed to real property which guarantees that t ... : grant deed quitclaim deed warrant breach of warranty :: n. determination that a statement as to title of p ... See also: implied warranty warranty judgment notwithstanding the verdict :: (N.O.V.) n. reversal of a jury's verdict by the tr ... veredicto. See also: N.O.V. verdict abandoned property :: n. property left behind (often by a tenant) intent ... -use. See also: abandon abandonment abandon :: v. to intentionally and permanently give up, surre ... lso: abandoned property abandonment title insurance :: n. a policy issued by an insurance company guarant ... : chain of title title title search work product :: n. the writings, notes, memoranda, reports on conv ... ies to be employed by the attorney. last will and testament :: n. a fancy and redundant way of saying "will." Law ... writing another one. See also: will accord and satisfaction :: n. an agreement to accept less than is legally due ... h" practicality. See also: novation landlord's lien :: n. the right of a landlord to sell abandoned perso ... to the ex-tenant and a public sale. witness stand :: n. a chair at the end of the judge's bench on the ... estimony clearly. See also: witness landlady :: n. female of landlord or owner of real property fr ... rents or leases. See also: landlord landlocked :: adj. referring to a parcel of real property which ... which it was created (carved out). writ of mandate :: (mandamus) n. a court order to a government agency ... al acts. See also: mandamus mandate land :: n. real property, real estate (and all that grows ... See also: real estate real property landlord and tenant :: n. the name for the area of law concerning renting ... ord lease lessee lessor rent tenant labor and materials :: (time and materials) n. what some builders or repa ... track of actual labor hours worked. landlord :: n. a person who owns real property and rents or le ... so: lease lessee lessor rent tenant title :: n. 1) ownership of real property or personal prope ... ink slip real property title search abandonment :: n. the act of intentionally and permanently giving ... : abandon abandoned property patent fair use :: n. the non-competitive right to use of copyrighted ... for a royalty. See also: copyright law and motion calendar :: n. a court calendar in which only motions and spec ... special legal arguments are heard. fruit of the poisonous tree :: n. in criminal law, the doctrine that evidence dis ... property. See also: Miranda warning suppression of evidence :: n. 1) a judge's determination not to allow evidenc ... the prosecutor. See also: evidence clerk :: n. 1) an official or employee who handles the busi ... stocking shelves, or counter sales. forensic medicine :: n. research, reports and testimony in court by exp ... dical examiners. See also: forensic American Civil Liberties Union :: n. a membership organization founded in 1920 to de ... rk, NY 10036; tel.: (212) 944-9800. chain of title :: n. the succession of title ownership to real prope ... title conveyance foreclosure title patent :: 1) adj. obvious. Used in such expressions as a "pa ... patent infringement patent pending demand note :: n. a promissory note which is payable any time the ... allments. See also: promissory note due and owing :: adj. See also: due ... adj. See also: due due, owing and unpaid :: adj. See also: due ... adj. See also: due false arrest :: n. physically detaining someone without the legal ... sment. See also: false imprisonment nuisance :: n. the unreasonable, unwarranted and/or unlawful u ... evening). See also: public nuisance child custody :: n. a court's determination of which parent, relati ... pport custody divorce joint custody aid and abet :: v. help commit a crime. A lawyer redundancy since ... be paid by the word. See also: abet consumer protection laws :: n. almost all states and the federal government ha ... rranty product liability securities jurisdiction :: n. the authority given by law to a court to try ca ... Superior Court Supreme Court venue citation :: n. 1) a notice to appear in court due to the proba ... se is not in point." See also: cite mandatory joinder :: n. the required inclusion of a party in a lawsuit ... sues in the case. See also: joinder extenuating circumstances :: n. surrounding factors (sometimes called mitigatio ... See also: mitigating circumstances arrest :: v. 1) to take or hold a suspected criminal with le ... anda warning probable cause warrant quo warranto :: (kwoh wahr-rahn-toe) n. the name for a writ (order ... ticles). See also: corporation writ caveat emptor :: (kah-vee-ott emptor) Latin for "let the buyer bewa ... See also: consumer protection laws scrivener :: n. a person who writes a document for another, usu ... r practicing law without a license. exemplary damages :: n. often called punitive damages, these are damage ... See also: damages punitive damages palimony :: n. a substitute for alimony in cases in which the ... the relationship. See also: alimony extradition :: n. the surrender by one state or country of a pers ... ty. See also: fugitive from justice deed :: 1) n. the written document which transfers title ( ... veyance deed of trust warranty deed ready, willing and able :: adj. fully prepared to act, as in performing a con ... o act, as in performing a contract. pander :: 1) v. to solicit customers for a prostitute. 2) n. ... ons or favors. See also: prostitute running with the land :: adj. permanently part of the title (ownership) to ... title (ownership) to real property. self-defense :: n. the use of reasonable force to protect oneself ... ndalism. See also: assault homicide grant :: v. to transfer real property from a title holder ( ... deed grantee grantor quitclaim deed grant deed :: n. the document which transfers title to real prop ... rant grantee grantor quitclaim deed law of the land :: n. a slang term for existing laws. ... n. a slang term for existing laws. grandfathered in :: adj. refers to continued allowed use of property a ... or zoning ordinances were adopted. Uniform Commercial Code :: n. a set of statutes governing the conduct of busi ... s except Louisiana. See also: UCC-1 damages :: n. the amount of money which a plaintiff (the pers ... liquidated damages special damages levy :: 1) v. to seize (take) property upon a writ of exec ... heriff's sale tax writ of execution latent defect :: n. a hidden flaw, weakness or imperfection in an a ... warranty product liability warranty covenant :: 1) n. a promise in a written contract or a deed of ... o compete deed restrictive covenant quitclaim deed :: n. a real property deed which transfers (conveys) ... also: convey deed grant deed title jump bail :: v. to fail to appear for a court appearance after ... also: bail bail bond bail bondsman product liability :: n. the responsibility of manufacturers, distributo ... e known. See also: warrant warranty search and seizure :: n. examination of a person's premises (residence, ... robable cause search search warrant unreasonable search and seizure :: n. search of an individual or his/her premises (in ... e probable cause search and seizure search warrant :: n. a written order by a judge which permits a law ... ble cause search search and seizure par :: n. 1) an equal level. 2) the face value of a stock ... common stock preferred stock stock paper hanger :: n. slang for a person who criminally writes and ca ... ey in them. See also: forgery fraud paralegal :: n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiri ... h less than that for the attorneys. pardon :: 1) v. to use the executive power of a Governor or ... also: amnesty commutation reprieve parens patriae :: (paa-rens pat-tree-eye) n. Latin for "father of hi ... pport custody divorce guardian ward prior restraint :: n. an attempt to prevent publication or broadcast ... e words of Sir William Blackstone). parcel :: n. a defined piece of real estate, usually resulti ... See also: real estate real property passive :: adj. referring to being inactive. A "passive trust ... ment and interest on bank accounts. prior(s) :: n. slang for a criminal defendant's previous recor ... es for the third felony conviction. patent infringement :: n. the manufacture and/or use of an invention or i ... not. See also: infringement patent paid into court :: adj. referring to money deposited with the clerk o ... differences. See also: interpleader parent :: n. the lawful and natural father or mother of a pe ... natural parent. See also: adoption priority :: n. the right to be first or ahead of the rights or ... (in the "race to the courthouse"). own recognizance :: (O.R.) n. the basis for a judge allowing a person ... n recognizance. See also: bail O.R. parody :: n. the humorous use of an existing song, play, or ... l significance. See also: copyright partial breach :: n. the failure to meet a term of a contract which ... g in the missing or expected items. parole :: n. 1) the release of a convicted criminal defendan ... sed he will not take up arms again. primogeniture :: n. from Latin for "first born," the ancient rule f ... oes not exist in the United States. participate :: v. to invest and then receive a part or share, as ... he estate of a person who has died. property tax :: n. an annual governmental tax on real property or ... are made. See also: ad valorem tax partner :: n. 1) one of the co-owners and investors in a "par ... ner limited partnership partnership partition :: n. a lawsuit which one co-owner of real property c ... sell, keep or divide the property. principal :: n. 1) main person in a business. 2) employer, the ... ry agency agent respondeat superior principal place of business :: n. location of head office of a business where the ... business to the Secretary of State. property :: n. anything that is owned by a person or entity. P ... rty real property separate property passenger :: n. a rider who has paid a fare on a train, bus, ai ... also: common carrier guest statute partnership :: n. a business enterprise entered into for profit w ... partnership partner silent partner overt act :: n. in criminal law, an action which might be innoc ... terrorist bombing of that building. promise :: 1) n. a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain ... so: consideration contract covenant party of the first part :: n. reference in a written contract to identify one ... ies another party to the agreement. promissory estoppel :: n. a false statement treated as a promise by a cou ... lue of his work. See also: estoppel parental neglect :: n. a crime consisting of acts or omissions of a pa ... usive or sexually predatory person. output contract :: n. an agreement in which a producer agrees to sell ... h it may have to store away a glut. probation :: n. a chance to remain free (or serve only a short ... See also: attorney-client privilege probative :: adj. in evidence law, tending to prove something. ... so: probative facts probative value probative value :: n. evidence which is sufficiently useful to prove ... prior actions. See also: probative probate :: 1) n. the process of proving a will is valid and t ... e also: administrator executor will pro bono :: adj. short for pro bono publico, Latin for "for th ... cation organizations and charities. opinion :: n. the explanation of a court's judgment. When a t ... which the author is not specified. operation of law :: n. a change or transfer which occurs automatically ... atically upon the child turning 18. privity :: n. contact, connection or mutual interest between ... with the seller. See also: contract opening statement :: n. the explanation by the attorneys for both sides ... rgument. See also: closing argument open court :: n. the conduct of judicial proceedings (trials, he ... which are usually held in chambers. on all fours :: adj. a reference to a lawsuit in which all the leg ... ame conclusion. See also: precedent offshore corporation :: n. a corporation chartered under the laws of a cou ... nds in accounts out of the country. offset :: 1) n. also called a "setoff," the deduction by a d ... e also: counterclaim defense setoff process :: n. in law, the legal means by which a person is re ... service of process subpena summons on or about :: prep. a phrase referring to a date or place used i ... reets:." See also: charge complaint procedure :: n. the methods and mechanics of the legal process. ... cases are tried and judgments made. on the merits :: adj. referring to a judgment, decision or ruling o ... s if this mistake had not occurred. professional corporation :: n. a corporation formed for the purpose of conduct ... rofessionals. See also: corporation option :: n. a right to purchase property or require another ... ng or upon expiration of the lease. prohibition :: n. forbidding an act or activity. A court order fo ... icial. See also: injunction mandate private property :: n. land not owned by the government or dedicated t ... ernment or dedicated to public use. outlaw :: n. popularly, anyone who commits serious crimes an ... us crimes and acts outside the law. private parts :: n. men's or women's genitalia, excluding a woman's ... duction and/or sale of pornography. out-of-pocket expenses :: n. moneys paid directly for necessary items by a c ... amages beyond normal wear and tear. overrule :: v. 1) to reject an attorney's objection to a quest ... : appellate court objection sustain private nuisance :: n. the interference with an individual's peaceful ... See also: nuisance public nuisance paternity suit :: n. a lawsuit, usually by a mother, to prove that a ... d to a prompt and quiet settlement. private road :: n. a road or driveway on privately owned property, ... ng. See also: prescriptive easement out of court :: adj. referring to actions, including negotiations ... is dismissed. See also: settlement 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. order to show cause :: n. a judge's written mandate that a party appear i ... vernmental agency. See also: O.S.C. ordinary :: adj. regular, customary and continuing, and not un ... , ordinary risks or ordinary skill. privileged communication :: n. statements and conversations made under circums ... See also: attorney-client privilege ordinary course of business :: n. conduct of business within normal commercial cu ... rmal commercial customs and usages. private carrier :: n. one who provides transportation or delivery of ... also: common carrier guest statute proper party :: n. a person or entity who has an interest (financi ... lf. See also: necessary party party police powers :: n. from the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, wh ... host of state regulatory statutes. police court :: n. in some states a type of municipal court which ... municipal court preliminary hearing pleading :: n. 1) every legal document filed in a lawsuit, pet ... nswer complaint demurrer plea plead political question :: n. the determination by a court (particularly the ... ne-vote," as constitutional issues. polygamy :: n. having more than one wife or husband at the sam ... ime in all states. See also: bigamy promoter :: n. a person who puts together a business, particul ... y effort and not by assets or cash. positive law :: n. statutory man-made law, as compared to "natural ... 651). See also: natural law statute pornography :: n. pictures and/or writings of sexual activity int ... courts to follow. See also: obscene plead :: v. 1) in civil lawsuits and petitions, to file any ... al conduct. See also: plea pleading plea bargain :: n. in criminal procedure, a negotiation between th ... the ban. See also: cop a plea plea prescriptive easement :: n. an easement upon another's real property acquir ... on. See also: easement prescription pimp :: n. a person who procures a prostitute for customer ... also: pander panderer prostitution pierce the corporate veil :: v. to prove that a corporation exists merely as a ... ling with it. See also: corporation piracy :: n. the crime of robbery of ships or boats on the o ... here the accused has been captured. prescription :: n. the method of acquiring an easement upon anothe ... ty. See also: prescriptive easement plaintiff :: n. the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a c ... lso: complaint defendant petitioner plain error :: n. a mistake by the trial court found by a court o ... ire reversal of the trial decision. plagiarism :: n. taking the writings or literary concepts (a plo ... d. See also: copyright infringement preponderance of the evidence :: n. the greater weight of the evidence required in ... what subjective. See also: evidence posse comitatus :: (pahs-see coh-mitt-tah-tus) n. from Latin for "pos ... group is called a posse for short. prenuptial agreement :: n. also called an antenuptial agreement, a written ... been "taken" by a previous spouse. precatory :: adj. referring to a wish or advisory suggestion wh ... lutely prevent her from selling it. prayer :: n. the specific request for judgment, relief and/o ... ee also: complaint default judgment premises :: n. 1) in real estate, land and the improvements on ... t). See also: real estate structure preemption :: n. the rule of law that if the federal government ... cs control may parallel each other. preliminary hearing :: n. in criminal law, a hearing to determine if a pe ... nment charge Grand Jury information preferred stock :: n. a class of shares of stock in a corporation whi ... on stock corporation dividend stock preference :: n. in bankruptcy, the payment of a debt to one cre ... nds or assets. See also: bankruptcy pray :: v. to formally request judicial judgment, relief a ... laint or petition. See also: prayer power of attorney :: n. a written document signed by a person giving an ... y, as in a real estate transaction. possibility of a reverter :: n. the potential that the title to a real property ... further issue. See also: reversion possessory interest :: n. in real estate, the intent and right of a perso ... o: possess possession real property possession :: n. 1) any article, object, asset or property which ... ctive possession. See also: possess postdated check :: n. a check delivered now with a written date in th ... livery of a bad check was criminal. officious intermeddler :: n. a volunteer who assists and/or benefits another ... efit. See also: Good Samaritan rule 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. power :: n. the right, authority and ability to take some a ... g legal rights and many other acts. presentment :: n. 1) making a demand for payment of a promissory ... ee also: Grand Jury promissory note picketing :: n. standing or parading near a business or governm ... es or threats to the public safety. peremptory :: adj. absolute, final and not entitled to delay or ... allenges or a date set for hearing. prime suspect :: n. the one person law enforcement officers believe ... in trial. See also: Miranda warning per stirpes :: (purr stir-peas) adj. Latin for "by roots," by rep ... descent and distribution trust will peremptory challenge :: n. the right of the plaintiff and the defendant in ... challenge for cause jury voir dire prima facie case :: n. a plaintiff's lawsuit or a criminal charge whic ... en and shut." See also: prima facie performance :: n. fulfillment of one's obligations required by co ... nce. See also: specific performance prima facie :: : (pry-mah fay-shah) adj. Latin for "at first look ... t" case. See also: prima facie case perfect :: : (with stress on the second syllable) v. 1) to co ... perfect. See also: mechanic's lien per diem :: adj. or n. Latin for "per day," it is short for pa ... or fees of an employee or an agent. per capita :: adj. Latin for "by head," meaning to be determined ... ivided equally among those persons. proof :: n. confirmation of a fact by evidence. In a trial, ... doubt preponderance of the evidence promissory note :: n. a written promise by a person (variously called ... lso: interest obligee obligor usury premeditation :: n. planning, plotting or deliberating before doing ... e murder malice aforethought murder payment in due course :: n. the giving of funds to the holder of a promisso ... nds. See also: holder in due course pedophilia :: n. an obsession with children as sex objects. Over ... also: molestation pornography rape penal :: adj. referring to criminality, as in defining "pen ... ntiary confining convicted felons). peer review :: n. an examination and evaluation of the performanc ... claiming damages due to negligence. 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 disability :: n. an injury which impairs the physical and/or men ... t injury Workers' Compensation Acts 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 petit jury :: n. old-fashioned name for the jury sitting to hear ... r duties. See also: Grand Jury jury petitioner :: n. one who signs and/or files a petition. See also ... iles a petition. See also: petition petty larceny :: n. a term used in many states for theft of a small ... emeanor in charging and sentencing. 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. physician-patient privilege :: n. the right and obligation of a physician to refu ... onfidential communication privilege proceeding :: n. any legal filing, hearing, trial and/or judgmen ... edings," as in "legal proceedings." personal services :: n. in contract law, the talents of a person which ... his/her unique ability and product. prevailing party :: n. the winner in a lawsuit. Many contracts, leases ... ed before or after trial has begun. price fixing :: n. a criminal violation of federal antitrust statu ... stributors to beat the competition. permanent injury :: n. physical or mental damage which will restrict t ... ges. See also: permanent disability 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 personal service :: n. delivering a summons, complaint, notice to quit ... process substituted service summons personal effects :: n. things which include clothes, cosmetics and ite ... e, Susannah"). See also: personalty person :: n. 1) a human being. 2) a corporation treated as h ... amages. See also: corporation party pawn :: v. to pledge an item of personal property as secur ... nsed by the state. See also: pledge murder :: n. the killing of a human being by a sane person, ... premeditation second degree murder long cause :: n. a lawsuit in which it is estimated that a trial ... dar call court calendar short cause loiter :: v. to linger or hang around in a public place or b ... kenness or being a public nuisance. living will :: n. also called "a durable power of attorney," it i ... upport. See also: power of attorney living trust :: n. sometimes called an inter vivos (Latin for "wit ... thrift clause trust trustee trustor loss :: n. 1) the value placed on injury or damages due to ... t and the income. See also: damages loss of consortium :: n. the inability of one's spouse to have normal ma ... ation. See also: consortium damages Magna Carta :: n. Latin for "Great Charter," it was a document de ... s. It is also spelled Magna Charta. magistrate :: n. 1) a generic term for any judge of a court, or ... ce of the peace preliminary hearing M. O. :: n. slang for modus operandi, the way or pattern in ... her crime. See also: modus operandi loss of use :: n. the inability to use an automobile, premises or ... ding or premises. See also: damages litigious :: adj. referring to a person who constantly brings o ... e called "professional plaintiffs." litigant :: n. any party to a lawsuit. This means plaintiff, d ... ant, but not a witness or attorney. limited partnership :: n. a special type of partnership which is very com ... mited liability partner partnership limited liability :: n. the maximum amount a person participating in a ... ted damages partnership shareholder limited jurisdiction :: n. courts' authority over certain types of cases s ... value. See also: court jurisdiction limitation of actions :: n. the period of time in which a person has to fil ... e. See also: statute of limitations lineal descendant :: n. a person who is in direct line to an ancestor, ... See also: descent and distribution lineup :: n. a law enforcement method used in an attempt to ... entification is precarious at best. literary property :: n. the writings of an author which entitles him/he ... as copyrighted. See also: copyright lis pendens :: (lease pen-dense) n. Latin for "a suit pending," a ... ob can be penalized by court order. liquidated damages :: n. an amount of money agreed upon by both parties ... airness. See also: contract damages liquidate :: v. to sell the assets of a business, paying bills ... other investors. See also: wind up mail box rule :: n. in contract law, making a written offer or acce ... nse in hand when the time runs out. maim :: v. to inflict a serious bodily injury, including m ... to a prison term. See also: mayhem marketable title :: n. the title to real property which has no encumbr ... e. See also: contract real property marked for identification :: adj. documents or objects presented during a trial ... exhibit lay a foundation objection maritime law :: n. Also called "admiralty law" or "the law of admi ... r maritime law. See also: admiralty marital rights :: n. an old-fashioned expression for the rights of a ... also: consortium loss of consortium marriage :: n. the joining of a male and female in matrimony b ... of time without legal formalities. marshal :: 1) n. a federal court official who may serve paper ... tablish priorities among creditors. material :: adj. relevant and significant. In a lawsuit, "mate ... contract is not a material breach. master :: n. 1) employer, in the area of law known as "maste ... ter and servant respondeat superior Massachusetts Trust :: n. a business in which the investors give manageme ... provide for eventual distribution. martial law :: n. a system of complete control by a country's mil ... n and women. See also: military law marital deduction :: n. an estate tax deduction allowed a surviving spo ... community property estate tax trust manslaughter :: n. the unlawful killing of another person without ... laughter. See also: homicide murder malice aforethought :: n. 1) the conscious intent to cause death or great ... : first degree murder malice murder malice :: n. a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a ... cution murder public figure slander malfeasance :: n. intentionally doing something either legally or ... sponsibility. See also: misfeasance majority :: n. 1) the age when a person can exercise all norma ... t. See also: child infancy minority malicious prosecution :: n. filing a lawsuit with the intention of creating ... vor of the victim. See also: malice malpractice :: n. An act or continuing conduct of a professional ... eed. See also: errors and omissions Mann Act :: n. a federal statute making it a crime to transpor ... is five years in a federal prison. malum prohibitum :: (mal-uhm prohibit-uhm) adj. Latin meaning "wrong d ... lso: malum in se white collar crime malum in se :: (mal-uhm in say) adv. Latin referring to an act th ... hibitum. See also: malum prohibitum life without possibility of parole :: n. a sentence sometimes given for particularly vic ... or may someday reduce the sentence. life estate :: n. the right to use or occupy real property for on ... hter, Sadie, will own the property. law of the case :: n. once a judge has decided a legal question durin ... he ruling is the "law of the case." law of admiralty :: n. statutes, customs and treaties dealing with act ... w. See also: Jones Act maritime law law book :: n. any of numerous volumes dealing with law, inclu ... : common law law Shepardize statute law :: n. 1) any system of regulations to govern the cond ... um maritime law natural law statute lay a foundation :: v. in evidence, to provide to the judge the qualif ... ce and training. See also: evidence leading :: 1) v. short for "leading the witness," in which th ... tness leading the witness objection legal advertising :: n. 1) notices of probate sales and other documents ... quality of the lawyers advertising. leasehold :: n. the real estate which is the subject of a lease ... sehold. See also: condominium lease lease :: 1) n. a written agreement in which the owner of pr ... triple net lease unlawful detainer leading question :: n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney du ... e also: cross-examination objection lateral support :: n. the right of a land- owner to assurance that hi ... support problems are less dramatic. last clear chance :: n. a rule of law in determining responsibility for ... contributory negligence negligence K :: n. the shorthand symbol for "contract" used almost ... rsally by lawyers and law students. juvenile delinquent :: n. a person who is under age (usually below 18), w ... low as 14. See also: juvenile court juvenile court :: n. a special court or department of a trial court ... See also: court juvenile delinquent justice of the peace :: (JP) n. a judge who handles minor legal matters su ... ersons to qualify by taking a test. kangaroo court :: n. 1) a mock court set up without legal basis, suc ... See also: star chamber proceedings kidnapping :: (also spelled kidnaping) n. the taking of a person ... but now applies to adults as well. last antecedent rule :: n. a doctrine of interpretation (construction) of ... o trucks and not boats or tractors. larceny :: n. the crime of taking the goods of another person ... : grand larceny petty larceny theft laches :: n. the legal doctrine that a legal right or claim ... , breach of contract, fraud, etc.). legal age :: n. the age at which a person is responsible for hi ... so: infancy juvenile court minority legal aid society :: n. an organization formed to assist persons who ha ... bar association. See also: pro bono liability :: n. one of the most significant words in the field ... bility joint tortfeasors negligence leverage :: 1) n. the use of borrowed money to purchase real e ... e been created by risky leveraging. letters testamentary :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... te. See also: administrator probate letters of administration :: n. a document issued by the court clerk which stat ... estate. See also: executor probate liable :: adj. responsible or obligated. Thus, a person or e ... al prosecution. See also: liability libel :: 1) n. to publish in print (including pictures), wr ... libel per se public figure slander lien :: n. any official claim or charge against property o ... ord's lien mechanic's lien mortgage lie detector test :: n. a popular name for a polygraph which tests the ... be referred to. See also: polygraph liberty :: n. freedom from restraint and the power to follow ... the benefit of the general public. libel per se :: n. broadcast or written publication of a false sta ... See also: defamation libel slander letters :: n. shorthand for letters testamentary or letters o ... administration letters testamentary lessor :: n. the owner of real property who rents it to a le ... lord and tenant lease lessee tenant legalese :: n. slang for the sometimes arcane, convoluted and ... rgon of lawyers and legal scholars. legal separation :: n. a court-decreed right to live apart, with the r ... n is rarely used. See also: divorce legal fiction :: n. a presumption of fact assumed by a court for co ... he law, and not law from fictions." legal duty :: n. the responsibility to others to act according t ... al injuries. See also: duty of care legatee :: n. a person or organization receiving a gift of an ... eficiary devise devisee legacy will legitimate :: adj., adv1) legal, proper, real. 2) referring to a ... 3) v. to make proper and/or legal. lesser-included offense :: n. in criminal law, a crime which is proved by the ... g jail time. See also: plea bargain lessee :: n. the person renting property under a written lea ... lord and tenant lease lessor tenant lemon law :: n. statutes adopted in some states to make it easi ... still trying" to make it run right. matter of record :: n. anything, including testimony, evidence, ruling ... cussions not written down or taped. maturity :: n. 1) the date when the payment of the principal a ... exchange legal age promissory note net estate :: n. the remaining estate of a person who has died, ... alue. See also: estate tax gift tax 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 next of kin :: n. 1) the nearest blood relatives of a person who ... See also: descent and distribution no contest :: n. in criminal law, a defendant's plea in court th ... : nolo contendere plea plea bargain nominal party :: n. a defendant or a plaintiff included in a lawsui ... ed. See also: necessary party party nolle prosequi :: (no-lay pro-say-kwee) n. Latin for "we shall no lo ... nocent and declared nolle prosequi. no fault insurance :: n: a type of automobile insurance required of car ... ling lawsuits. See also: negligence no fault divorce :: n. divorces (dissolutions) in which neither spouse ... and South Dakota. See also: divorce negligence :: n. failure to exercise the care toward others whic ... gence per se res ipsa loquitur tort negative pregnant :: n. a denial of an allegation in which a person act ... suse, just the amount and the date. mutual :: adj., adv. referring to anything in which both par ... rights, understanding or agreement. prosecute :: v. 1) in criminal law, to charge a person with a c ... rney General prosecution prosecutor municipal court :: n. a lower court which usually tries criminal misd ... nd/or small claims. See also: court multiplicity of suits :: n. several actual or potential lawsuits which shou ... e can order the cases consolidated. N.O.V. :: adj. shorthand acronym of Latin for non obstante v ... notwithstanding the verdict verdic National Labor Relations Board :: n. an independent regulatory commission created in ... see union and organizing elections. negative declaration :: n. a finding by a city council or other local gove ... so: EIR environmental impact report necessary party :: n. a person or entity whose interests will be affe ... o: indispensable party proper party necessary inference :: n. 1) a conclusion militated by reason and logic a ... nown facts. 2) unavoidable meaning. natural law :: n. 1) standards of conduct derived from traditiona ... eated by mankind through the state. nominee :: n. 1) a person or entity who is requested or named ... ic office. See also: agent executor non-conforming use :: n. the existing use (residential, commercial, agri ... eneral plan grandfathered in zoning objection :: n. a lawyer's protest about the legal propriety of ... ng question object overrule sustain object :: 1) v. to ask the court not to allow a particular q ... he contract..." See also: objection oath :: n. 1) a swearing to tell the truth, the whole trut ... ountry. See also: affidavit perjury nunc pro tunc :: (nuhnk proh tuhnk) adj. Latin for "now for then," ... r actuality of a bigamous marriage. occupational hazard :: n. a danger or risk inherent in certain employment ... e of death or injury while at work. occupy the field :: v. to preempt (monopolize) an area of statutory la ... ertain topics. See also: preemption officer of the court :: n. any person who has an obligation to promote jus ... also: attorney bailiff clerk judge offer of proof :: n. an explanation made by an attorney to a judge d ... rial irrelevant objection testimony offer :: n. a specific proposal to enter into an agreement ... es the contract. See also: contract of counsel :: adj. reference to an attorney who is not actively ... quiring his/her full-time presence. novation :: n. agreement of parties to a contract to substitut ... . See also: accord and satisfaction notice to quit :: n. the notice given by a landlord (owner) to a ten ... h-to-month notice unlawful detainer 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-profit corporation :: n. an organization incorporated under state laws a ... harity corporation cy pres doctrine non-discretionary trust :: n. a trust in which the trustee is directed to inv ... ower in the matter. See also: trust not guilty by reason of insanity :: n. plea in court of a person charged with a crime ... fense not guilty temporary insanity notary public :: n. a person authorized by the state in which the p ... he state which appoints the notary. notice of default :: n. a notice to a borrower with property as securit ... notice of default. See also: notice notice :: n. 1) information, usually in writing in all legal ... Thirty-day notice three-day notice note :: n. a promissory note, a written statement of debt ... the note. See also: promissory note motion to suppress :: n. a motion (usually on behalf of a criminal defen ... eshold." See also: motion in limine motion to strike :: n. a request for a judge's order to eliminate all ... be unrung." See also: motion strike military law :: n. regulations governing the conduct of men and wo ... also: court-martial judge advocate mesne profits :: n. profits which have accrued while there was a di ... ed "mesne profits." See also: mesne merger :: n. 1) in corporate law, the joining together of tw ... and taking one, and wife the other. merchantable :: adj. a product of a high enough quality to make it ... taminated or flawed. See also: sale mining claim :: n. a description by boundaries of real property in ... g within a specific period of time. minority :: n. 1) in voting, a side with less than half the vo ... See also: legal age majority minor misdemeanor :: n. a lesser crime punishable by a fine and/or coun ... tion are felonies. See also: felony misappropriation :: n. the intentional, illegal use of the property or ... mbezzlement fiduciary larceny theft mirror wills :: n. the wills of a husband and wife which are ident ... d each names the other as executor. minutes :: n. 1) the written record of meetings, particularly ... court reporter if recorded at all. mercantile law :: n. that broad area of the law (also called commerc ... tion seller Uniform Commercial Code mental cruelty :: n. a term, rapidly going out of fashion and out of ... history. See also: cruelty divorce McNabb-Mallory rule :: n. a federal rule of evidence in criminal trials t ... present. See also: Miranda warning mayhem :: 1) n. the criminal act of disabling, disfiguring o ... so: aggravated assault assault maim may :: v. a choice to act or not, or a promise of a possi ... sion or regulation. See also: shall maxims :: n. a collection of legal truisms which are used as ... e and the ordinary habits of life." mechanic's lien :: n. the right of a craftsman, laborer, supplier, ar ... ll sue for the debt. See also: lien mediation :: n. the attempt to settle a legal dispute through a ... a settlement. See also: arbitration mental anguish :: n. mental suffering which includes fright, feeling ... See also: damages mental suffering meeting of the minds :: n. when two parties to an agreement (contract) bot ... eant his cattle. See also: contract mediator :: n. a person who conducts mediation. A mediator is ... o: arbitration arbitrator mediation misfeasance :: n. management of a business, public office or othe ... n of the law. See also: malfeasance misprision of a felony :: n. the crime of concealing another's felony (serio ... also: accessory aid and abet felony mortgage :: n. a document in which the owner pledges his/her/i ... losure notice of default trust deed moratorium :: n. 1) any suspension of activity, particularly vol ... to normal activities and earnings. 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 mortgagor :: n. the person who has borrowed money and pledged h ... agee). See also: mortgage mortgagee motion :: n. a formal request made to a judge for an order o ... g, an oral motion may be permitted. motion in limine :: (lim-in-nay) n. Latin for "threshold," a motion ma ... o: in limine Miranda warning motion motion for dismissal :: (non-suit) n. application by a defendant in a laws ... otion for nonsuit. See also: motion 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. monument :: n. 1) an established landmark which a surveyor use ... torn down or substantially altered. month-to-month :: adj. referring to a tenancy in which the tenant pa ... e also: landlord and tenant tenancy mitigating circumstances :: n. in criminal law, conditions or happenings which ... ity heat of passion Twinkie defense mistrial :: n. the termination of a trial before its normal co ... from the beginning. See also: trial mistake :: n. 1) an error in comprehending facts, meaning of ... time. See also: contract rescission misrepresentation :: n. the crime of misstating facts to obtain money, ... etenses." See also: false pretenses mitigation of damages :: n. the requirement that someone injured by another ... he lease) to mitigate his/her loss. M'Naughten rule :: n. a traditional "right and wrong" test of legal i ... temporary insanity Twinkie defense monopoly :: n. a business or inter-related group of businesses ... ust laws license restraint of trade molestation :: n. the crime of sexual acts with children up to th ... of rape. See also: pedophilia rape modification :: n. a change in an existing court order or judgment ... terms of child support and custody. official misconduct :: n. improper and/or illegal acts by a public offici ... ty. See also: color of law official race to the courthouse :: n. slang for the rule that the first deed, deed of ... e also: deed judgment lien mortgage sum certain :: n. a specific amount stated in a contract or negot ... r redecoration of Williams' house." summary adjudication of issues :: n. a court order ruling that certain factual issue ... is made. See also: summary judgment suicide :: n. the intentional killing of oneself. Ironically, ... e manslaughter second degree murder suffering :: n. the pain, hurt, inconvenience, embarrassment an ... njury negligence pain and suffering successive sentences :: n. in criminal law, the imposition of the penalty ... uld be 15 years. See also: sentence summary judgment :: n. a court order ruling that no factual issues rem ... tion summary adjudication of issues summation :: n. the final argument of an attorney at the close ... 's case. See also: closing argument 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 supersedeas :: (sooh-purr-said-ee-uhs) Latin for "you shall desis ... . See also: appeal court of appeals summons :: n. a document issued by the court at the time a la ... use service service of process writ succession :: n. the statutory rules of inheritance of a dead pe ... istribution." See also: inheritance substitution of attorney :: n. a document in which the party to a lawsuit stat ... t any time. See also: substitute in 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 subornation of perjury :: n. the crime of encouraging, inducing or assisting ... itness's perjury. See also: perjury submitted :: n. the conclusion of all evidence and argument in ... , no further argument is permitted. subrogation :: n. assuming the legal rights of a person for whom ... also: negligence subrogee subrogor subrogor :: n. a person or entity that transfers his/her/its l ... ges. See also: subrogation subrogee substituted service :: n. accomplishing service (delivery) of legal docum ... ee also: service service of process substantive law :: n. law which establishes principles and creates an ... are conducted. See also: procedure 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. supremacy clause :: n. Article VI, section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, ... f involving a constitutional issue. Supreme Court :: n. 1) the highest court in the United States, whic ... rt in other states. See also: court temporary injunction :: n. a court order prohibiting an action by a party ... ry injunction. See also: injunction temporary insanity :: n. in a criminal prosecution, a defense by the acc ... diminished capacity insanity intent 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 tenancy :: n. the right to occupy real property permanently, ... rety tenancy in common tenant title tenancy at sufferance :: n. a "hold-over" tenancy after a lease has expired ... y tenancy at will unlawful detainer tenant :: n. a person who occupies real property owned by an ... rental payments. See also: tenancy tenancy in common :: n. title to property (usually real property, but i ... on. See also: joint tenancy tenancy 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 tax costs :: n. a motion to contest a claim for court costs sub ... sts" to avoid paying these charges. tax :: n. a governmental assessment (charge) upon propert ... unified estate and gift tax use tax surrogate :: n. 1) a person acting on behalf of another or a su ... or probates, estates and adoptions. surrender :: v. 1) to turn over possession of real property, ei ... lf up to law enforcement officials. surrebutal :: n. in written or oral legal argument, the response ... h until the judge stops the debate. surplusage :: n. a term used in analyzing legal documents and pl ... ect and, therefore, can be ignored. surrogate court :: n. a court in a few states (including New York) wi ... er probates, estates and adoptions. survivor :: n. a person who outlives another, as in "to my son ... are alive they are both survivors. tangible property :: n. physical articles (things) as distinguished fro ... operty personal property personalty syndicate :: n. a joint venture among individuals and/or corpor ... l dissolve. See also: joint venture swear :: v. 1) to declare under oath that one will tell the ... ee also: notary public oath perjury sustain :: v. in trial practice, for a judge to agree that an ... /she will "overrule" the objection. sublease :: n. the lease to another of all or a portion of pre ... and sublease. See also: lease rent subject to :: adj. referring to the acquisition of title to real ... : assumption deed of trust mortgage specific finding :: n. a decision on a fact made by a jury in its verd ... so forth. See also: special verdict specific performance :: n. the right of a party to a contract to demand th ... artwork. See also: contract prayer special prosecutor :: n. an attorney from outside of the government sele ... Robert Bork finally discharged Cox. special master :: n. a person appointed by the court to carry out an ... ting to the judge. See also: master special damages :: n. damages claimed and/or awarded in a lawsuit whi ... . See also: damages general damages speculative damages :: n. possible financial loss or expenses claimed by ... future customers. See also: damages speedy trial :: n. in criminal prosecutions, the right of a defend ... hurt by the waiver. See also: trial spousal support :: n. payment for support of an ex-spouse (or a spous ... but two. See also: alimony divorce spot zoning :: n. a provision in a general plan which benefits a ... . See also: grandfathered in zoning spontaneous exclamation :: n. a sudden statement caused by the speaker having ... et hit the girl." See also: hearsay spendthrift clause :: n. a provision in a trust or will that states that ... tly to Junior. See also: trust will special appearance :: n. the representation by an attorney of a person i ... anged. See also: general appearance special administrator :: n. a person appointed by the court in a probate pr ... or administrator. See also: probate solicitation :: n. the crime of encouraging or inducing another to ... xual acts for pay. See also: pander sodomy :: n. anal copulation by a man inserting his penis in ... tiality). See also: bestiality rape small claims court :: n. a division of most municipal, city or other low ... od example of a small claims court. situs :: n. Latin for "location," be it where the crime or ... place or where the building stands. solicitor :: n. an English attorney who may perform all legal s ... s or barristers. See also: attorney Solicitor General :: n. the chief trial attorney in the federal Departm ... Attorney General in the Department. special :: adj. referring to a particular purpose, person or ... rator, master, orders and so forth. speaking demurrer :: n. an attempt to introduce evidence during a heari ... the operation." See also: demurrer sounds in :: adj. referring to the underlying legal basis for a ... ause of action sounds in contract." solitary confinement :: n. the placement of a prisoner in a federal or sta ... as "cruel and unusual punishment." springing interest :: n. a future right to title to real property create ... lso: future interest interest title star chamber proceedings :: n. any judicial or quasi-judicial action, trial or ... ate 1960s. See also: kangaroo court 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 street :: n. a roadway in an urban area, owned and maintaine ... A private road cannot be a street. strict construction :: (narrow construction) n. interpreting the Constitu ... See also: constitution construction subcontractor :: n. a person or business which has a contract (as a ... ependent contractor mechanic's lien subchapter S corporation :: n. the choice by a small corporation to be treated ... ing attorney. See also: corporation strike :: 1) v. to remove a statement from the record of the ... ing the business, factory or store. strict liability :: n. automatic responsibility (without having to pro ... bility negligence res ipsa loquitur stock :: 1) n. inventory (goods) of a business meant for sa ... siness. See also: share shareholder stipulation :: n. an agreement, usually on a procedural matter, b ... g, signed and filed with the court. status conference :: n. a pre-trial meeting of attorneys before a judge ... g a trial date. See also: discovery state of domicile :: n. the state in which a person has his/her permane ... orated. See also: domicile resident 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 statute :: n. a federal or state written law enacted by the C ... and proclamations are not statutes. statute of frauds :: n. law in every state which requires that certain ... ulent title claims. See also: fraud stay away order :: n. a court order that a person may not come near a ... also: peace bond restraining order statutory rape :: n. sexual intercourse with a female below the lega ... majority minority molestation rape statutory offer of settlement :: n. a written offer of a specific sum of money made ... ly awarded to the prevailing party. statute of limitations :: n. a law which sets the maximum period which one c ... ies. See also: demurrer laches toll testamentary capacity :: n. having the mental competency to execute a will ... lso: competent undue influence will testamentary trust :: n. a trust created by the terms of a will. Example ... vivos trust living trust trust will voluntary bankruptcy :: n. the filing for bankruptcy by a debtor who belie ... kruptcy court. See also: bankruptcy voting trust :: n. a trust which solicits vote proxies of sharehol ... ation proxy shareholder stockholder voir dire :: (vwahr [with a near-silent "r"] deer) n. from Fren ... t witness jury peremptory challenge void for vagueness :: adj. referring to a statute defining a crime which ... o the states by the 14th Amendment. void :: adj. referring to a statute, contract, ruling or a ... udgment is void. See also: voidable waiver :: n. the intentional and voluntary giving up of some ... ssed on the record. See also: waive wanton :: adj. 1) grossly negligent to the extent of being r ... sexually immoral and unrestrained. wet reckless :: n. a plea to a charge of reckless driving which wa ... conviction. See also: plea bargain weight of evidence :: n. the strength, value and believability of eviden ... dence preponderance of the evidence 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 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. variance :: n. 1) an exception to a zoning ordinance, authoriz ... process." See also: dismissal proof vagrancy :: n. moving about without a means to support oneself ... ue of "loitering." See also: loiter vacate :: v. 1) for a judge to set aside or annul an order o ... of real estate and cease occupancy. uxor :: n. Latin for "wife." In deeds and documents the te ... man and not worthy of being named. venue :: n. 1) the proper or most convenient location for t ... ion. See also: forum non conveniens verdict :: n. the decision of a jury after a trial, which mus ... nt quotient verdict special verdict vicarious liability :: n. sometimes called "imputed liability," attachmen ... r or policeman. See also: liability vexatious litigation :: n. filing a lawsuit with the knowledge that it has ... lous malicious prosecution sanction vest :: v. to give an absolute right to title or ownership ... . See also: vested vested remainder verification :: n. the declaration under oath or upon penalty of p ... ed. See also: answer complaint oath whiplash :: n. a common neck and/or back injury suffered in au ... r damages due to negligent driving. white collar crime :: n. a generic term for crimes involving commercial ... committed by "blue collar" workers. zoning :: n. a system of developing a city or county plan in ... îâñêîé ãàðàíòèè . |