Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Criminal case A case brought by the government against a person accused of committing a crime. presentence report An investigation conducted at the request of the court after a person has been found guilty of a crime. The purpose is to provide the court with extensive background information to determine the appropriate sentence. On felonies, usually done by the Department of Corrections, Division of Adult Probation & Parole (AP & P). Court reporter A court official who records testimony and arguments, and transcribes it into a permanent record of all court proceedings. Attorney of record Attorney whose name appears in the permanent records or files of a case. Pleading The formal allegations by the parties of their respective claims and defenses. Comparative negligence The degree to which a person contributed to his/her own injury, damage or death. Usually measured in terms of percentage. Contributory negligence is the failure to exercise care by a plaintiff, which contributed to the plaintiff's injury. Hearing de novo A full new hearing. Defamation The making of false, derogatory statements about a person's character, morals, abilities, business practices or financial status. (Includes libel, which is written, and slander, which is spoken).

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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.