Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

En banc A proceeding in which the entire membership of an appellate court participates in the decision, rather than leaving the decision to a smaller "panel" of the court's members. In Utah, the Court of Appeals is prohibited from sitting en banc. Prejudicial error Synonymous with "reversible error"; an error which warrants the appellate court in reversing the judgment before it. Libel See defamation Amicus curiae A friend of the court; a nonparty who interposes, with the permission of the court, and volunteers information upon some matter before the court. Moot A moot point is one that need not be decided, due to a change of circumstances. Reporting statutes An order by a court directing the transfer of a case to another court. For example, when a case is proper for jurisdiction in federal court, the federal court may remove the case from the state court in which it was originally filed. Dependent child A child who is homeless or without proper care through no fault of the parent, guardian, or custodian. Objection The act of taking exception to some statement or procedure in trial or other proceeding. Used to call the court's attention to improper evidence or procedure.

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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.