Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Instruction A direction given by the judge to the jury concerning the law to be applied in the case. Clerk of the court Court official who keeps court records, files pleadings, motions, and judgments, and administers the oath to jurors and witnesses Hypothetical question A form of question generally used for expert witnesses. The examiner states a factual foundation (often based on disputed facts) and asks the expert to draw conclusions based on the hypothetical foundation. The hypothetical question includes only facts already in evidence. 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. Arrest of judgment Postponing the effect of a judgment already entered. Original jurisdiction The court in which a matter must first be filed. Bailiff A court officer whose duties are to keep order in the courtroom and to have custody of the jury. Fine A sum of money paid as part of a penalty of conviction for a particular criminal offense.

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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.