Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Not guilty by reason of insanity The jury or the judge must determine that the defendant, because of mental disease or defect, could not form the intent required to commit the offense. Admissible evidence Evidence, which can legally and properly is used in court. Civil case A lawsuit brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights or to gain payment for a wrong done to a person or party by another person or party. In general, all types of actions other than criminal proceedings. Search warrants In general, an examination, without authority of law, of one's premises or person to find-stolen property or contraband. Appellant The party appealing a final decision or judgment. Forfeiture The concept of forfeiture is used in a variety of settings in the legal system. For example, property such as an automobile or house that is used in the commission of a crime i.e., selling a controlled substance, may be forfeited to the state in a civil proceeding. Jurisdiction The legal authority of a court to hear a case or conduct other proceedings; power of the court over persons involved in a case and the subject matter of the case. Restitution A party is said to "rest" or "rest his case" when he/she has presented all the evidence he/she intends to offer.

IAre you currently seeking legal information regarding North Last Vegas laws? If so, contact one of our North Last Vegas attorneys today!

	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.