Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Contract An oral or written agreement between two or more parties, which is enforceable by law. Hearing de novo A full new hearing. Levy A seizure; the obtaining of money by legal process through seizure and sale of property. Harmless error An error committed by a lower court during a trial, but not prejudicial to the rights of the party and for which the appellate court will not reverse the judgment. Hearing A formal proceeding (generally less formal than a trial) with definite issues of law or of fact to be heard. Negligence Failure to exercise the care that an ordinarily prudent person would exercise in the same circumstances. 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. Fee simple absolute The most complete, unlimited form of ownership of real property.

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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.