Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Bench warrant An order issued by the court for the arrest of a person Mitigating circumstance A circumstance that may be considered to reduce the degree of moral culpability, although it does not entirely justify or excuse an offense. Custody The right to or responsibility for a child's care and control, carrying with it the duty of providing food, shelter, medical care, education and discipline. Unlawful detainer A detention of real estate without the consent of the owner or other person entitled to its possession. Locus delicti The place of the offense. Certiorari See writ of certiorari Assault A willful attempt to illegally inflict injury on or threaten a person. Bench trial Trial without a jury in which the judge decides the case

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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.