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Most Popular Legal Definitions
self-defense defense
a type of defense in a criminal proceeding that attempts to justify someone's
use of force as necessary to protect themselves or another
C.I.F.
total of cost, insurance and freight charges to be paid on goods purchased and
shipped (Cost, Insurance, Freight = C.I.F.)
common land
Land that is available for the use and enjoyment of all.
bar association
organization of lawyers; there are two types, one of which is official and
usually called an "integrated bar," which is qualified by the particular state's
highest court to establish rules for admission and conduct; there are also local
bar associations by city or county which are unofficial and voluntary, but do
conduct the business of attorneys, such as settling fee disputes and working
with the local courts on rules; there is also the American Bar Association, a
national voluntary organization of attorneys
quorum
The minimum number of voting members that must
be in attendance at a meeting of an organization for that meeting to be
regularly constituted.
precedent
A case which establishes legal principles to a certain set of facts.
cause of action
The basis of a lawsuit founded on legal grounds and alleged facts which, if
proved, would constitute all the "elements" required by statute.
confession
a statement made by a person suspected or charged with a crime, that they did,
in fact, commit that crime
distraint
The right of a landlord to seize the property of
a tenant which is in the premises being rented, as collateral against a tenant
that has not paid the rent or has otherwise defaulted on
the lease, such as wanton
disrepair or destruction of the premises.clerk
An official or employee who handles the business
of a court or a system of courts, maintains files of each case.