Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Punitive damages Lawyers regularly employed by the government to represent people accused of crimes who cannot afford to hire their own. The term may also be used to refer to a private firm receiving public money to defend indigent criminal defendants. Levy A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property. Statute of limitations The judgment formally pronounced by the court upon the defendant after conviction in a criminal prosecution, imposing the punishment to be inflicted. Witness One who testifies under oath to what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed. Garnishment A court order to take part of a person's wages, before he gets them, and apply the amount taken to pay a debt owed to a creditor Court reporter A court official who records testimony and arguments, and transcribes it into a permanent record of all court proceedings. Subpoena duces tecum An official order to appear in court (or at a deposition) at a specific time. Failure to obey a subpoena to appear in court is punishable as a contempt of court. Directed verdict In civil cases in which there is insufficient basis for any other conclusion, the judge may direct the jury to render a specific verdict. Criminal defendants may also ask the court to rule in their favor rather than submitting the case to the jury.

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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.