Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Docket A brief entry or the book containing such entries of any proceeding in court. Arraignment In a misdemeanor case, the initial appearance before a judge at which the criminal defendant enters a plea; in a felony case, the proceeding after the indictment or bindover at which the defendant comes before a judge in District Court, is informed of the charges, enters a plea, and has a date set for trial or disposition. In Juvenile Court, the first hearing after a petition has been filed. Delinquency The commission of an illegal act by a juvenile Inter alia Among other things. Leading question One that virtually instructs a witness how to answer or puts into his mouth words to be echoed back; one, which suggests to the witness the answer, desired. Ordinarily prohibited on direct examination, although allowed on cross-examination. Burden of proof The duty to establish a claim or allegation by admissible evidence. This is usually the duty of the plaintiff in a civil case and always is the duty of the state in a criminal case. Answer A pleading by which defendant responds to the plaintiff's complaint Ex post facto After the fact, ordinarily used in reference to constitutional prohibition on ex post facto laws. For example, a person cannot be punished for conduct committed before a criminal law was enacted

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation is a process that involves a mediator Neutral third party who helps the disputing parties achieve a resolution that satisfies both of them. The mediator's primary function is to create constructive communication between parties and provide a forum where disputants can create a mutually satisfactory agreement. Mediators do not impose decisions; instead, they help people craft solutions that will work for them.