Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Reasonable doubt What for what; something for something; giving one valuable thing for another. Parties The persons who are actively involved in the prosecution or defense of a legal proceeding, including the plaintiff or prosecution, the defendant and any "third party defendant". Abstract of record A short, abbreviated form of the case as found in the record. Fraud An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right Proximate cause A court order following a judgment on the ground of neglect or abuse, whereby the child is permitted to remain in his home, and supervision and assistance to correct the neglect or abuse is provided by the probation department or other agency designated by the court. Ne exeat A writ that forbids the person to whom it is addressed to leave the country, the state or the jurisdiction of the court. Preliminary inquiry In Juvenile Court, an investigation and study conducted by the probation department upon receiving a referral to determine whether further action should be taken. False arrest Any unlawful physical restraint of another's personal liberty, whether or not carried out by a peace officer

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation may not be the most appropriate avenue for resolution in all cases. For example, it may not be appropriate in cases where: A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required; The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made; Maintaining established policies that apply to many people is especially important; The matter significantly affects persons or groups who are not parties to the process; A full public record of the proceeding is important; or The agency must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in light of changed circumstances.