Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Answer A pleading by which defendant responds to the plaintiff's complaint Counterclaim A claim presented by a defendant in a civil proceeding in opposition to the claim of a plaintiff. Parol evidence Oral or verbal evidence (rather than written). The parol evidence rule limits the admissibility of parol evidence which would directly contradict the clear meaning of terms of a written contract. Oral or verbal evidence (rather than written). The parol evidence rule limits the admissibility of parol evidence which would directly contradict the clear meaning of terms of a written contract. Ne exeat A writ that forbids the person to whom it is addressed to leave the country, the state or the jurisdiction of the court. Docket A brief entry or the book containing such entries of any proceeding in court. Restraining order Court-ordered payment to restore goods or money to the victim of a crime by the offender. Clerk of the court Court official who keeps court records, files pleadings, motions, and judgments, and administers the oath to jurors and witnesses 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.

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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.