Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Adversary system The system of trial practice in the United States and some other countries in which each of the opposing, or adversary, parties has the opportunity to present and establish opposing contentions before the court Abandonment A parent's or custodian's act of leaving a child without adequate care, supervision, support or parental contact for an excessive period of time. Also, the desertion of one spouse by the other with the intent to terminate the marriage relationship. Protective custody The name of the public officer who is appointed in each county to conduct criminal prosecutions on behalf of the state or people. Complain The first pleading on the part of the plaintiff in a civil action. Appellant The party appealing a final decision or judgment. Restraining order Court-ordered payment to restore goods or money to the victim of a crime by the offender. Prejudicial error Synonymous with "reversible error"; an error which warrants the appellate court in reversing the judgment before it. Sealing The fee, which the client pays when he/she retains an attorney.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation may not be the most appropriate avenue for resolution in all cases. For example, it may not be appropriate in cases where: A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required; The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made; Maintaining established policies that apply to many people is especially important; The matter significantly affects persons or groups who are not parties to the process; A full public record of the proceeding is important; or The agency must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in light of changed circumstances.