Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Probate The process of proving the validity of a will. Foreclosure A termination of all rights of the mortgagor or his grantee in the property covered by the mortgage. Recidivism Evidence given to explain, contradict, or disprove facts offered by the adverse party. In criminal cases, the state has the opportunity to rebut the defendant's case because it has the burden of proof. Summons A notice to the named person that an action has been commenced against him in court and that he is required to appear, on the day named, and answer the complaint. Preliminary hearing A probable cause hearing which screens felony criminal cases by deciding whether there is enough evidence to warrant a trial. If the judge determines there is sufficient evidence, the defendant is "bound over" for trial. The defendant may waive this hearing. Bind over A judge's decision to hold a criminal defendant for trial. Impanel To seat a jury. When voir dire is finished and both sides have exercised their challenges, the jury is impaneled. The jurors are sworn in and the trial is ready to proceed. Brief A lawyer's written statement of a client's case filed in court. It usually contains a summary of the facts in the case, the pertinent laws, and an argument of how the law applies to the facts supporting the client's position.

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

	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.