Legal Profession Vocabulary

A legal decision that serves as an authoritative rule in future cases

“The Supreme Court set a precedent that lower courts must follow.”

The official power to make legal decisions

“This case falls outside the court's jurisdiction.”

The process of taking legal action

“The company sought to avoid costly litigation through settlement.”

Testimony taken under oath outside of court

“The witness gave a detailed deposition lasting several hours.”

A written statement confirmed by oath for use as evidence

“She signed an affidavit attesting to the accuracy of the documents.”

A legal document ordering someone to attend court

“He received a subpoena to testify before the grand jury.”

A court order requiring a person to be brought before a judge

“The defense filed a writ of habeas corpus challenging the detention.”

Legal work done without charge for public good

“Many attorneys dedicate time to pro bono cases for those who cannot afford representation.”

A civil wrong that causes harm or loss

“Negligence is one of the most common types of tort.”

The party who initiates a lawsuit

“The plaintiff alleged breach of contract and sought damages.”

The party against whom a lawsuit is brought

“The defendant denied all allegations and filed a counterclaim.”

A court order requiring a party to do or refrain from doing something

“The judge issued an injunction preventing the merger.”

A person legally obligated to act in another's best interest

“As a fiduciary, the trustee must prioritize the beneficiaries' interests.”

Resolution of a dispute by an impartial third party

“The contract requires arbitration rather than litigation for disputes.”

Security against legal liability for one's actions

“The insurance policy provides indemnity against professional negligence.”

A legal principle preventing someone from arguing something contrary to a previous claim

“The doctrine of estoppel barred him from denying the agreement.”

Wrongdoing or misconduct, especially by a public official

“The investigation revealed malfeasance at the highest levels.”

Based on first impression; accepted as correct until proven otherwise

“The prosecution established a prima facie case of fraud.”

Something given in exchange for something else

“The arrangement was a clear quid pro quo that violated ethics rules.”

The time limit for initiating legal proceedings

“The statute of limitations had expired, barring the lawsuit.”

The act of a judge disqualifying themselves from a case due to conflict of interest

“The judge announced his recusal from the trial.”

An impartial adviser to a court of law in a particular case

“The organization filed an amicus curiae brief.”