Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Deliberation The jury's decision-making process after hearing the evidence and closing arguments and being given the court's instructions. Hearsay Second-hand evidence, generally consisting of a witness's testimony that he/she heard someone else say something. Circumstantial evidence All evidence of an indirect nature. Testimony not based on actual personal knowledge or observation of the facts in controversy. Witness One who testifies under oath to what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed. Ne exeat A writ that forbids the person to whom it is addressed to leave the country, the state or the jurisdiction of the court. Judgment The official decision of a court disposing of a case. Annual review Yearly judicial review, usually in juvenile dependency cases, to determine whether the child requires continued court supervision or placement Rebuttal evidence A person accused of a crime is entitled to acquittal if, in the minds of the jury or judge, his or her guilt has not been proved beyond a "reasonable doubt"; the jurors are not entirely convinced of the person's guilt.

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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.