Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

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. Appellant The party appealing a final decision or judgment. 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. Jurisdiction The legal authority of a court to hear a case or conduct other proceedings; power of the court over persons involved in a case and the subject matter of the case. Liability A legal responsibility, obligation, or debt. Appellate jurisdiction The appellate court has the right to review and revise the lower court decision. In camera In a judge's chambers; in private. Circumstantial evidence All evidence of an indirect nature. Testimony not based on actual personal knowledge or observation of the facts in controversy.

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	Alternative Dispute Resolution describes problem-solving processes Alternative Dispute Resolution describes problem-solving processes that promote creative solutions to disputes that are unavailable in traditional dispute resolution forums. May include a specialist