Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Holographic will A will entirely written, dated and signed by the testator in his/her own handwriting. With prejudice A dismissal "with prejudice" bars the right to bring or maintain another action on the same claim or cause. Arrest of judgment Postponing the effect of a judgment already entered. Direct evidence Evidence in the form of testimony from a witness who actually saw, heard, or touched the subject of interrogation. In camera In a judge's chambers; in private. Parent Infant Trauma Syndrome (P.I.T.S.) See Battered Child Syndrome Indeterminate sentence An indefinite sentence of imprisonment, within a specified range (e.g. "5 to life") with the Board of Pardons later determining the exact term to be served. Declaratory judgment One which declares the rights of the parties or expresses the opinion of the court on a question of law, without ordering anything to be done.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation may not be the most appropriate avenue for resolution in all cases. For example, it may not be appropriate in cases where: A definitive or authoritative resolution of the matter is required; The matter involves or may bear upon significant questions of Government policy that require additional procedures before a final resolution may be made; Maintaining established policies that apply to many people is especially important; The matter significantly affects persons or groups who are not parties to the process; A full public record of the proceeding is important; or The agency must maintain continuing jurisdiction over the matter with authority to alter the disposition of the matter in light of changed circumstances.