Module 2 Terminology - Historic/Latin Terminology

Flashcards based on Module 2 Historic/Latin Terminology notes, covering legal definitions and word constructs.

voir dire

The examination of a witness, particularly an expert, to establish his or her qualifications; also to determine a prospective juror's qualifications to be a member of the jury panel.

sic

To indicate that what appears on the written record actually was said, even though it is obviously in error.

stare decisis

Let the decision stand - the principle that prior court rulings should be followed.

res judicata

Decided thing - matter acted upon or decided finally, a conclusive decision by a court.

mens rea

A guilty mind - having criminal intent.

non compos mentis

Not of sound mind.

nolo contendere

A criminal plea neither admitting nor denying the charges, but accepting consequences. This avoids future civil liability.

venue

Referring to a court's jurisdiction.

duces tecum

A subpoena indicating the witness needed to bring all his documents pertaining to the accident with him to the deposition; subpoena to bring items of evidence.

mal-

A word construct meaning bad.

de novo

A new trial; to hear a case from the beginning.

en banc

On the bench.

escheat

Reversion of property to the state when there are no legal heirs.

in limine

Immediately before or at the very beginning of a trial.

ad litem

To the suit - for the purposes of a lawsuit.

in pro per / pro se

Pleading a case on one's own behalf without an attorney.

in camera

In chambers, in private.

habeas corpus

A writ issued to release someone from improper imprisonment.

ad curiam

At court.

ante-

A word construct meaning before.

amicus curiae

Friend of the court; assisting the court without representing the accused.

super-

A word construct meaning above.

sine-

A word construct meaning without.

inter-

A word construct meaning between.

curriculum vitae (C.V.)

It is essentially a resume.

infra-

A word construct meaning below.

culpa

Fault.

ad hoc

For this purpose only.

certiorari

A writ from a higher to a lower court, ordering a transcript of proceedings for appellate review.

caveat emptor

Let the buyer beware.

bona fide

In good faith.