Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Not guilty by reason of insanity The jury or the judge must determine that the defendant, because of mental disease or defect, could not form the intent required to commit the offense. Deposition The taking of testimony of a witness under oath outside of court, usually transcribed in writing by a court reporter, or less frequently, recorded on videotape. Quid pro quo To overthrow; vacate; to annul or void a summons, indictment, bindover order or subpoena. Prejudicial evidence Evidence which might unfairly sway the judge or jury to one side or the other. For example, photographs of a gory murder scene might inflame a jury without providing useful evidence. May be excluded in criminal cases if prejudicial effect outweighs probative value. Appearance The formal proceeding by which defendant submits to the jurisdiction of the court. Holographic will A will entirely written, dated and signed by the testator in his/her own handwriting. Fraud An intentional perversion of truth; deceitful practice or device resorted to with intent to deprive another of property or other right Corroborating evidence Evidence supplementary to that already given and tending to strengthen or confirm it.

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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.