Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Codicil A supplement or an addition to a will. It may explain, modify, and add to, subtract from, qualify, alter, restrain or revoke provisions in the existing will. Accessory A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact. Cross-claim In a civil proceeding, if there are two or more defendants, one defendant can raise a claim against another defendant. Extraordinary writ A writ, often issued by an appellate court, making available remedies not regularly within the powers of lower courts. They include writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition and quo warranto. Bailiff A court officer whose duties are to keep order in the courtroom and to have custody of the jury. Lis pendens A pending suit. False arrest Any unlawful physical restraint of another's personal liberty, whether or not carried out by a peace officer Default Occurs when a defendant fails to respond to the plaintiff's complaint within the time allowed, or fails to appear at the trial. The court may then enter a default judgment

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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.