Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

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. Domicile That place where a person has his true and permanent home. A person may have several residences, but only one domicile Prejudicial evidence Evidence which might unfairly sway the judge or jury to one side or the other. For example, photographs of a gory murder scene might inflame a jury without providing useful evidence. May be excluded in criminal cases if prejudicial effect outweighs probative value. Arraignment In a misdemeanor case, the initial appearance before a judge at which the criminal defendant enters a plea; in a felony case, the proceeding after the indictment or bindover at which the defendant comes before a judge in District Court, is informed of the charges, enters a plea, and has a date set for trial or disposition. In Juvenile Court, the first hearing after a petition has been filed. Bailiff A court officer whose duties are to keep order in the courtroom and to have custody of the jury. Statute of limitations The judgment formally pronounced by the court upon the defendant after conviction in a criminal prosecution, imposing the punishment to be inflicted. Search and seizure, unreasonable The closure of court records to inspection, except to the parties. Equity, courts of Courts which administer a legal remedy according to the system of equity, as distinguished from courts of common law. The English system upon which most American states modeled their court systems included two separate sets of courts: equity and law. Although Utah has now combined the two in a single system, court continues to refer to their powers in equity as distinct from their functions as courts of law. Equitable powers are flexible and try to do justice. Courts of law are rigid and must act strictly according to the law.

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

	Did You Know?
	Alternative Dispute Resolution describes problem-solving processes Alternative Dispute Resolution describes problem-solving processes that promote creative solutions to disputes that are unavailable in traditional dispute resolution forums. May include a specialist