Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Habeas corpus Latin phrase meaning "you have the body"; a civil proceeding used to review the legality of a prisoner's confinement in criminal cases. Habeas corpus actions are commonly used as a means of reviewing state or federal criminal convictions. The petitioner alleges the convictions violated state or federal constitutional rights. State habeas proceedings start in state District Court; federal habeas proceedings start in federal District Court. Lower court decisions may be appealed to appellate courts. Civil case A lawsuit brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights or to gain payment for a wrong done to a person or party by another person or party. In general, all types of actions other than criminal proceedings. Preliminary inquiry In Juvenile Court, an investigation and study conducted by the probation department upon receiving a referral to determine whether further action should be taken. Dispositional report In Juvenile Court, a written report relating to the child's mental, physical, and social history, submitted by the juvenile probation department or other designated agency to assist the judge in determining a proper disposition Commit To send a person to prison or jail in criminal proceedings, or to another institution in civil cases by authority of a court. Dependent child A child who is homeless or without proper care through no fault of the parent, guardian, or custodian. Commutation The change of a punishment from a greater degree to a lesser degree, as from death to life imprisonment. In Utah the Board of Pardons may do this Malfeasance Unlawful conduct.

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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.