Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Hearsay Second-hand evidence, generally consisting of a witness's testimony that he/she heard someone else say something. Parties The persons who are actively involved in the prosecution or defense of a legal proceeding, including the plaintiff or prosecution, the defendant and any "third party defendant". Hearing de novo A full new hearing. Parent Infant Trauma Syndrome (P.I.T.S.) See Battered Child Syndrome Bench warrant An order issued by the court for the arrest of a person Embezzlement The fraudulent appropriation by a person to his own use or benefit of property or money entrusted to him by another. Fitness hearing A hearing held in Juvenile Court to determine the fitness of a minor for retention in Juvenile Court, and the minor's amenability to Juvenile Court resources. Must be held before any evidence is heard on a petition for detention. Such a hearing is a prerequisite to transfer of a minor's case to adult court. Also called certification hearing Leading question One that virtually instructs a witness how to answer or puts into his mouth words to be echoed back; one, which suggests to the witness the answer, desired. Ordinarily prohibited on direct examination, although allowed on cross-examination.

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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.