Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Dependent child A child who is homeless or without proper care through no fault of the parent, guardian, or custodian. Direct evidence Evidence in the form of testimony from a witness who actually saw, heard, or touched the subject of interrogation. Proximate cause A court order following a judgment on the ground of neglect or abuse, whereby the child is permitted to remain in his home, and supervision and assistance to correct the neglect or abuse is provided by the probation department or other agency designated by the court. False arrest Any unlawful physical restraint of another's personal liberty, whether or not carried out by a peace officer Inadmissible/incompetent evidence Information that is so unreliable it cannot be admitted under the established rules of evidence. Discovery The process through which parties to an action are allowed to obtain relevant information known to other parties or nonparties before trial Extraordinary writ A writ, often issued by an appellate court, making available remedies not regularly within the powers of lower courts. They include writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition and quo warranto. Probate The process of proving the validity of a will.

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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.