Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Mandamus A writ by which a court commands the performance of a particular act. Perjury Lying while under oath Objection The act of taking exception to some statement or procedure in trial or other proceeding. Used to call the court's attention to improper evidence or procedure. Malfeasance Unlawful conduct. Amicus curiae A friend of the court; a nonparty who interposes, with the permission of the court, and volunteers information upon some matter before the court. Original jurisdiction The court in which a matter must first be filed. Condemnation The legal process by which real estate of a private owner is taken for public use without the owner's consent, but theownerreceives "just compensation. presentence report An investigation conducted at the request of the court after a person has been found guilty of a crime. The purpose is to provide the court with extensive background information to determine the appropriate sentence. On felonies, usually done by the Department of Corrections, Division of Adult Probation & Parole (AP & P).

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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.