Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Summons A notice to the named person that an action has been commenced against him in court and that he is required to appear, on the day named, and answer the complaint. Eminent domain The power to take private property for public use by the state and municipalities. Multiplicity of actions Numerous and unnecessary attempts to litigate the same issue. Eschea In American law, the right of the state to an estate left vacant, to which no one makes a valid claim. Property of a decedent who had no will and no heir’s escheats to the state. Mens rea Literally, "guilty mind." The intent required to commit the crime. One of the two basic requirements, along with the guilty act (actus reus), which constitute a crime. No bill This phrase, endorsed by a grand jury on an indictment, means that, in the opinion of the jury, evidence was insufficient to warrant the return of a formal charge. Referral Follows cross-examination, and is conducted by the party who first examined the witness. Retainer: Similar to an injunction, commanding the party to leave the other party alone, usually in a divorce proceeding.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation may not be the most appropriate avenue for resolution in all cases. For example, it may not be appropriate in cases where: A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required; The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made; Maintaining established policies that apply to many people is especially important; The matter significantly affects persons or groups who are not parties to the process; A full public record of the proceeding is important; or The agency must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in light of changed circumstances.