Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Quash Money awarded to an injured person, over and above the measurable value of the injury, in order to punish the person who hurt him. Estate A collective term meaning all real and personal property owned by a person. Nominal party One, who is joined as a party or defendant merely because the technical rules of pleading require his presence in the record, Beyond a reasonable doubt Entirely convinced; in a criminal case the defendant's guilt must be proven to the jury to this extent. This is the highest burden of proof any party has in any proceeding Cross-examination The questioning of a witness by the lawyer for the opposing side. This may be done by leading questions, questions that suggest the answer. Sealing The fee, which the client pays when he/she retains an attorney. Res ipsa loquitur State laws requiring certain designated persons (physicians, nurses, teachers) to report to the authorities suspected cases of child abuse and injuries. Admissible evidence Evidence, which can legally and properly is used in court.

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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.