Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Alibi A defense claim that the accused was somewhere else at the time a crime was committed. Estate A collective term meaning all real and personal property owned by a person. Adversary system The system of trial practice in the United States and some other countries in which each of the opposing, or adversary, parties has the opportunity to present and establish opposing contentions before the court Nominal party One, who is joined as a party or defendant merely because the technical rules of pleading require his presence in the record, Malicious prosecution A merit less (civil or criminal) action instituted solely to harass the defendant. Such misuse of the judicial process may be the basis for an action against the original plaintiff/prosecutor. Direct evidence Evidence in the form of testimony from a witness who actually saw, heard, or touched the subject of interrogation. Res ipsa loquitur State laws requiring certain designated persons (physicians, nurses, teachers) to report to the authorities suspected cases of child abuse and injuries. Instruction A direction given by the judge to the jury concerning the law to be applied in the case.

IAre you currently seeking legal information regarding Indianapolis laws? If so, contact one of our Indianapolis attorneys today!

	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.