Legal System term sheet

Substantive Law

The body of law that governs rights and responsibilities, as opposed to procedural law, which outlines the process for enforcing those rights.

procedural law

The area of law that sets forth the rules and procedures for enforcing substantive laws in legal proceedings.

sources of American law

The various origins and authorities from which laws in the United States are derived, including the Constitution, statutes, regulations, and case law.

inferior courts

Lower-level courts with limited jurisdiction, handling less serious cases and appeals from lower tribunals.

trial courts

Courts that have original jurisdiction over cases, responsible for hearing and deciding cases before any appeals.

appellate courts

stare decesis (precedent)

subject matter jurisdiction

diversity of citizenship

Erie Doctrine

jurisdiction over the person (in personam)

jurisdiction over property (in rem)

International shoe v. washington

long arm statute

venue

forum not convenience

civil complaint

service of process

summons

preliminary objections

motion for a more specific pleading

motion to dismiss (demurrer)

answer

new matter

counterclaim

cross claim

discovery

protective order

written interrogatories

depositions

motion to compel discovery

motion for sanctions