Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Exclusive jurisdiction The matter can only be filed in one court Complain The first pleading on the part of the plaintiff in a civil action. False pretenses Representation of some fact or circumstance which is not true and is calculated to mislead, whereby a person obtains another's money or goods Assault A willful attempt to illegally inflict injury on or threaten a person. Accessory A person who assists in the commission of a crime, either before or after the fact. Pro se A sentence releasing a convicted criminal into the community or a treatment facility under the supervision of a probation officer, requiring compliance with certain conditions. If the conditions are not met, the court orders an "Order to Show Cause" hearing as to why probation should not be revoked and the sentence imposed. Summons A notice to the named person that an action has been commenced against him in court and that he is required to appear, on the day named, and answer the complaint. Petit jury The ordinary jury of twelve (or fewer) persons for the trial of a civil or criminal case. So called to distinguish it from the grand jury.

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	Did You Know?
	The mediation process may vary depending on the mediator. Generally, mediations commence with a general session with all parties, counsel and the mediator. At the general session, there will be a discussion of the case, the issues on appeal and other matters important to settlement. Then the mediator will meet separately with each party and their counsel in separate "caucuses." In these separate sessions, the mediator will seek to foster negotiations between the parties and develop agreement.