Basic Law Terms (1)

Latin word, meaning "in fact" or "actually."

Something that exists in fact but not as a matter of law.

Latin, meaning "in law."

Something that exists by operation of law

In a civil case, the person or organization against whom the plaintiff brings suit;

in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime

• Defendant

• Damages

• De facto

• Jurisdiction

Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case in favor of one side or the other

The legal authority of a court to hear and decide a certain type of case. It also is used as a synonym for venue, meaning the geographic area over which the court has territorial jurisdiction to decide cases

• Judgement

• Evidence

• Jurisdiction

• Defendant

The official decision of a court finally resolving the dispute between the parties to the lawsuit

An invalid trial, caused by fundamental error. When a mistrial is declared, the trial must start again with the selection of a new jury.

• Mistake

• Mistrial

• Defendant

• De jure