Legal Glossary

The legal glossary is a comprehensive index of legal terms aimed at educating and helping consumers better understand some of the legal terminology and jargon that is often used in describing legal matters.

(1) The process of calling something into question, as in impeaching the testimony of a witness. (2) The constitutional process whereby the House of Representatives may impeach (accuse of misconduct) high officers of the federal government for trial in the Senate.

In the manner of a pauper. Permission given to a person to sue without payment of court fees on claim of indigence or poverty.

Evidence which tends to show the defendant’s guilt.

The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.

A formal accusation by a government attorney that the defendant committed a misdemeanor.

Court proceeding in which the defendant learns of his rights and the charges against him and the judge decides bail.

An order of the court prohibiting (or compelling) the performance of a specific act to prevent irreparable damage or injury.

Written questions asked to one party by an opposing party, who must answer them in writing under oath. Interrogatories are a part of discovery in a lawsuit.

A meeting with the police or prosecutor.

(1) The disputed point in a disagreement between parties in a lawsuit. (2) To send out officially, as in to issue an order.