#1
What is the definition of 'bail' in legal terminology?
Release from custody, typically on payment of a sum of money
ExplanationRelease from custody pending trial, often involving a monetary deposit
#2
What does 'habeas corpus' refer to in legal terms?
A legal order to bring a detained person before a court
ExplanationLegal mandate to present a detained person in court, ensuring their rights are not violated
#3
What does 'pro bono' mean in legal terms?
For the good of the people
ExplanationLegal work performed voluntarily or without charge for the public good
#4
What is 'mens rea'?
The intent or knowledge of wrongdoing
ExplanationThe mental state indicating criminal intent or awareness of wrongdoing
#5
In legal terms, what does 'voir dire' mean?
To challenge or question potential jurors
ExplanationThe process of questioning potential jurors to assess their suitability for a trial
#6
What is 'stare decisis'?
The principle of deciding cases based on precedent
ExplanationLegal principle of adhering to past court decisions to maintain consistency and predictability in the law
#7
What is 'voir dire'?
An examination of prospective jurors
ExplanationProcess of questioning potential jurors to select an impartial jury for trial
#8
What does 'in camera' mean in legal terminology?
In private
ExplanationLegal proceedings held in private, often to protect sensitive information
#9
What is 'prima facie evidence'?
Evidence that is sufficient to establish a fact or raise a presumption
ExplanationEvidence that, on first impression, establishes a case or fact until disproven
#10
What is 'res ipsa loquitur'?
The thing speaks for itself
ExplanationLegal doctrine where the facts alone imply negligence, requiring no further explanation
#11
What does 'res judicata' mean?
A matter already judged
ExplanationLegal doctrine barring re-litigation of issues already decided in court
#12
What is 'ultra vires'?
Beyond the powers
ExplanationActing beyond the legal authority or powers granted
#13
What is 'malfeasance'?
The performance of an illegal act
ExplanationEngaging in unlawful or wrongful conduct, especially by a public official
#14
What does 'nolo contendere' mean?
A plea of no contest
ExplanationLegal plea where the defendant neither admits nor denies guilt but accepts punishment
#15
What is 'amicus curiae'?
A type of legal brief
ExplanationLegal document filed by a non-party providing expertise or insight to assist the court's decision