Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Defendant The accused in a criminal case; the person from whom money or other recovery is sought in a civil case. Annual review Yearly judicial review, usually in juvenile dependency cases, to determine whether the child requires continued court supervision or placement Preliminary injunction In civil cases when it is necessary to preserve the status quo prior to trial, the court may issue a preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order ordering a party to carry out a specified activity. Default Occurs when a defendant fails to respond to the plaintiff's complaint within the time allowed, or fails to appear at the trial. The court may then enter a default judgment With prejudice A dismissal "with prejudice" bars the right to bring or maintain another action on the same claim or cause. Direct examination: The first questioning of a witness by the attorney for the party on whose behalf the witness is called. Usually proceeds with open ended, non leading questions. Redirect examination A kind of bail, consisting of a written promise to appear in court when required. Generally, when there is no good reason to suppose the accused in a criminal case will not appear when required or the accused is not a significant risk to the community, he or she will be released on his or her own recognizance. Commit To send a person to prison or jail in criminal proceedings, or to another institution in civil cases by authority of a court.

IAre you currently seeking legal information regarding Colorado Springs laws? If so, contact one of our Colorado Springs attorneys today!

	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.