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Most Popular Legal Definitions

superior court

The name used in 16 states for the basic county trial court.

chancery

A court that can order acts to be performed. Today, chancery courts are merged with courts of law in most states.

charge

1) In a criminal case, the statement of what crime the party is accused of. 2) In jury trials, the oral instructions by the judge to the jurors just before the jury begins deliberations. This 
charge is based on jury instructions submitted by attorneys on both sides and agreed upon by the trial judge. 3) a fee for services.

judicial branch

A branch of government; judges

in personam

Latin, regarding a person; a right, action, judgment, or entitlement that is attached to a specific person.

K

The shorthand symbol for "contract" used by lawyers and law students.

oral argument

the summary submitted by a lawyer in front of the court explaining why they should win the decision

Inchmaree Clause

A standard clause in maritime insurance contracts covering risks of events not directly related to perils at sea such as loading accidents.

hostile witness

During an examination-in-chief, a lawyer is not allowed to ask leading questions of their own witness. But, if that witness openly displays hostility against the interest of the person that the lawyer represents, the lawyer may ask the court to declare the witness "hostile", after which, the lawyer may ask their own witness leading questions.

law of nature

The uncertain and elastic concept of regulation of conduct based on morality, conscience or God.