Legal Terminology 13 (copy)

Appellant

The party seeking a change in a lower court's decision or administrative order by an appeal to a higher court.

Code

A compilation of all existing law in effect under a system of subjects in a particular jurisdiction.

Corpus delicti (del-ECT-ai)

The body of the crime; that is, the physical object upon which the crime was committed.

Deed

An instrument effecting a transfer of real estate.

Digest

A multi-volume collection of abbreviated case summaries arranged by subject matter. A research tool.

Estate

The total probate assets of a deceased person.

Exculpatory

Refers to evidence and/or statements which tend to clear, justify, or excuse a defendant from alleged fault or guilt.

Garnishment

An action compelling a third party (usually an employer) to pay some of the defendant's money to the plaintiff.

Hornbook law

Those principles of law which are known generally to all and are free from doubt and ambiguity.

In personam

Against a person to impose a liability or obligation.

Jurat

Synonymous with acknowledgment; a place on a document for signatures to be notarized.

Nolle prosequl (noll prosecule or noll pross)

(commonly nolle pros) An entry on the record denoting that the plaintiff or prosecutor will proceed no further in action or suit.

Peremptory challenge

Excusing a prospective juror without explanation or reason.

Pro hac vice (pro hock veechay)

For this occasion.