The Law Dictionary for Everyone
By law, the term “immediate family” refers to a person’s parents, or spouse of a person’s parent if that parent has remarried, and siblings, as well as his own family. For example, immediate family also refers to a person’s spouse and children. Immediate family can include individuals not related by blood, such as stepchildren or adopted children. To explore this […]
Read moreThe doctrine of “separate but equal” supported the idea of races being separate, so long as they received “equal” facilities and treatment to that which the whites had or received. For example, separate but equal dictated that blacks and whites use separate water fountains, schools, and even medical care. However, because blacks had, say, their own water fountains, then they […]
Read moreThe term “Bill of Attainder” refers to the act of declaring a group of people guilty of a crime, and punishing them for it, usually without a trial. Officials have used bills of attainder to strip individuals of everything from their property to their lives. For example, bills of attainder caused the famous executions of several people by the English […]
Read moreWhen civil and criminal issues arise, the legal proceedings take place in a courtroom. Judges preside over these proceedings to ensure they remain fair, and correct under the law. Judges also rule on questions of the law and, in some instances, decide the outcome of a case. Keep reading to learn more about the judge. What Does a Judge Do? Judges oversee legal […]
Read moreThe term “recant” in the legal world means to formally take back or withdraw a prior statement. For example, recant occurs when a witness makes an official statement to, say, the police, and then formally withdraws that statement upon its presentation later in open court. Domestic violence victims sometimes recant their statements to the police when they fear the aftermath […]
Read moreThe term “ex post facto” translates to “out of the aftermath,” or “from a thing done afterward.” In the legal world, the term refers to the punishing of an act that was once legal, but is now criminal. For example, ex post facto laws can either create new penalties for a particular action or extend sentences already issued. To explore […]
Read moreInternational law refers to the rules and regulations that govern relationships between nations. The law promotes common interests, advancement of peace, and respect for human rights. Unfortunately, disputes arise between entities due to legal, language, and cultural differences between nations. International lawyers are legal professionals that help resolve these disputes. They also help clients navigate the complex areas of international […]
Read moreThe term “jury nullification” refers to a jury’s verdict of “not guilty” despite believing the defendant is, in fact, guilty of the crime alleged. For example, jury nullification occurs when the jury “nullifies” the law related to the case, because they believe it is either corrupt or does not apply to the case presented. Once a jury declares a defendant […]
Read moreIntellectual property refers to a work or invention created by the human mind. This includes symbols, names, digital content, music, books, logos, and more. The body of law that protects a person’s right to their own creative works is known as intellectual property law. An intellectual property lawyer deals with any matter related to this area of the law. Keep […]
Read moreThe Good Samaritan Law is a law that protects civilians who help people they believe to be injured or otherwise in danger. For example, the Good Samaritan Law provides people with the freedom to act without having to fear the other person might sue them. The purpose of the Good Samaritan Law is to encourage ordinary people to help someone […]
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