What is a legal “action”?

The action is a lawsuit. It's all done. A lot of words in legalese are the same as simpler ones. One of those is this.

What is an “affidavit”?

An affidavit is a written statement that is signed by a person authorized to take an oath. The person who made the oath can be charged with perjury if the affidavit is found to be false.

Who is “counsel,” exactly?

Counsel can refer you to your lawyer. It is used interchangeably with Lawyer and Attorney.

What are “damages”?

Damages are given to someone who has suffered an injury or loss as a result of another person's actions. Penalties are given to a person for their actions.

What is a “grand jury”?

A grand jury is made up of regular people who listen to the prosecution and defense and then decide if someone is guilty or not. The 5th amendment gives the right to a jury trial.

What is an “injunction”?

A court order forcing a party to act or refrain from doing something is called a court order. You and your spouse own a business together while you go through a divorce. If your spouse files an injunction, you won't be able to sell the company from under them.

What is a “liability”? 

Liability is similar to responsibility in the legal world. You are responsible for your actions. You are at risk of being sued if you don't meet your responsibilities.

What is legal “negligence”?

Negligence refers to a failure to act in a way that is reasonable and prudent. It can cause harm and result in an action.

What is legal “nonfeasance”?

The failure to act is referred to as the failure to act. Imagine a doctor watching someone bleed out and not giving first aid because they can't be bothered.

What is the “standard of proof”?

A standard of proof is the amount of evidence needed to convict a person. Beyond a reasonable doubt is the highest standard of proof that can be used to get a criminal conviction.

What is “pro bono” work?

The term refers to when a lawyer works with a client without paying anything. The American Bar Association encourages lawyers to give up at least 50 hours of pro bono services each year.

What is “pro se”?

This is a Latin phrase. There are a lot of legalese words. Your right to defend yourself in court is referred to. Even though you have read the whole glossary, you should not do that. Deep knowledge of the law is what makes lawyers rich.

What is “testimony,” exactly?

This is not a written document. The person giving testimony still has to tell the truth or face perjury charges.

What is a legal “verdict”?

The jury's final decision is whether a person is guilty or not. Unless an appeal is granted, a verdict can't be changed.

What is a “warrant”?

A warrant is a document issued by a court that allows the police to take someone into custody. Make sure the officer has a warrant before you do anything. If you can show they didn't have a warrant, anything they uncover will be thrown out.