Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Burglary The unlawful breaking into or entering of a building or dwelling with the intent to commit a serious crime or theft. Hypothetical question A form of question generally used for expert witnesses. The examiner states a factual foundation (often based on disputed facts) and asks the expert to draw conclusions based on the hypothetical foundation. The hypothetical question includes only facts already in evidence. Lien A claim against property for payment of a debt. Common types of liens include the mechanic's lien, the judgment lien, and the mortgage lien. Malfeasance Unlawful conduct. Manslaughter A person recklessly causes the death of another, or acting under extreme emotional disturbance, causes the death of another, or acting under circumstances when a person reasonably believes the circumstances provide a legal justification or excuse for his conduct constitutes manslaughter. Diversion Procedures for handling relatively insignificant juvenile problems informally, without referral to Juvenile Court. In criminal cases, the formal continuance of a case for a certain length of time, usually a year, with the goal of dismissal if the defendant meets certain conditions. Immunity Legal protection from liability. There are many categories of immunity in civil and criminal law. For example, sovereign immunity protects government agencies from civil liability and judicial immunity protects judges acting in their official capacities. Malpractice A lawsuit brought against a professional person, such as a doctor, lawyer or engineer, for injury or loss caused by the defendant's negligence in providing professional services.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation is a process that involves a mediator Neutral third party who helps the disputing parties achieve a resolution that satisfies both of them. The mediator's primary function is to create constructive communication between parties and provide a forum where disputants can create a mutually satisfactory agreement. Mediators do not impose decisions; instead, they help people craft solutions that will work for them.