Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Delinquency The commission of an illegal act by a juvenile Not guilty by reason of insanity The jury or the judge must determine that the defendant, because of mental disease or defect, could not form the intent required to commit the offense. Bail bondsman A person who posts bail in exchange for a fee, usually 10 percent of the total bail. In camera In a judge's chambers; in private. prima facie Literally, "on its face." A fact presumed to be true unless disproved by some other evidence. In a criminal case, when the prosecution rests, the state's case is said to be prima facie, if the evidence so far introduced is sufficient to convict. Prejudicial error Synonymous with "reversible error"; an error which warrants the appellate court in reversing the judgment before it. Manslaughter A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter. Discovery The process through which parties to an action are allowed to obtain relevant information known to other parties or nonparties before trial

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	Did You Know?
	The mediation process may vary depending on the mediator. Generally, mediations commence with a general session with all parties, counsel and the mediator. At the general session, there will be a discussion of the case, the issues on appeal and other matters important to settlement. Then the mediator will meet separately with each party and their counsel in separate "caucuses." In these separate sessions, the mediator will seek to foster negotiations between the parties and develop agreement.