Legal Definitions

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W  All
Bail:  Security given for the release of a criminal defendant or witness from legal custody (usually in the form of money) to secure his/her appearance on the day and time appointed.

Bankruptcy:  Refers to statutes and judicial proceedings involving persons or businesses that cannot pay their debts and seek the assistance of the court in getting a fresh start. Under the protection of the bankruptcy court, debtors may discharge their debts, perhaps by paying a portion of each debt. Bankruptcy judges preside over these proceedings.

Bench Trial:  Trial without a jury in which a judge decides the facts.

Brief:  A written statement submitted by the lawyer for each side in a case that explains to the judges why they should decide the case or a particular part of a case in favor of that lawyer's client.



The definitions of the legal terms on this page are provided by the United States Department of Justice.