Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Beyond a reasonable doubt Entirely convinced; in a criminal case the defendant's guilt must be proven to the jury to this extent. This is the highest burden of proof any party has in any proceeding Concurrent sentence Sentence under which two or more prison or jail terms are served simultaneously, and the prisoner is entitled to discharge when the longest term specified expires (i.e., sentences of 1 to 15 years and 0 to 5 years means a maximum sentence of 15 years). Differs from a consecutive sentence, which is when the sentences are served back-to-back. (A 1 to 15 and 0 to 5 consecutive sentence could mean up to 20 years). Mistrial A trial, which is void because of some error. Power of attorney A written instrument authorizing another (not necessarily a lawyer) to act as one's agent or attorney. Evidence Testimony, records, documents, material objects, or other things presented at a trial to prove the existence or nonexistence of a fact. Petit jury The ordinary jury of twelve (or fewer) persons for the trial of a civil or criminal case. So called to distinguish it from the grand jury. Cross-claim In a civil proceeding, if there are two or more defendants, one defendant can raise a claim against another defendant. Sealing The fee, which the client pays when he/she retains an attorney.

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	Did You Know?
	The mediation process may vary depending on the mediator. Generally, mediations commence with a general session with all parties, counsel and the mediator. At the general session, there will be a discussion of the case, the issues on appeal and other matters important to settlement. Then the mediator will meet separately with each party and their counsel in separate "caucuses." In these separate sessions, the mediator will seek to foster negotiations between the parties and develop agreement.