Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Trust A transaction in which the owner of real property or personal property (the trustor or settlor) gives ownership to a trustee, to hold and to manage it for the benefit of a third party, called the "beneficiary." Information The first paper filed in criminal prosecution, which states the crime of which the defendant is accused. Bailiff A court officer whose duties are to keep order in the courtroom and to have custody of the jury. Battery Actual physical violence, whether serious or minor, inflicted on a person. (A mere threat is called assault, whereas the completed act is called battery). 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). Referral Follows cross-examination, and is conducted by the party who first examined the witness. Delinquency The commission of an illegal act by a juvenile Contempt of court Any act involving disrespect to the court or failure to obey its rules or orders. Contempt of court carries a maximum of 30 days in jail.

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