Legal Dictionary

Committal Proceedings

Preliminary proceedings to determine whether a serious criminal case should go to trial.

A court application alleging violation, threat, or interpretation of constitutional rights or duties.

A resignation treated as dismissal because the employer made work conditions intolerable.

Conduct that disrespects court authority or disobeys a court order.

A legally enforceable agreement creating rights and obligations between parties.

The legal process of transferring ownership or interests in land and property.

A claim made by a defendant against a claimant in the same proceedings.

Questioning of a witness by the opposing party to test truth and reliability.

Money awarded by a court to compensate a person for loss or injury.

A fresh hearing or review in which the matter is considered again from the beginning.

A formal and authoritative court order, especially in civil matters.

Publication of false statements that harm a person’s reputation.

Judgment entered because a party failed to respond or appear as required.

A person or entity against whom legal proceedings are brought.

Pre-trial disclosure of relevant documents and information between parties.

A legal process for seizing property, often to recover rent or debt.

Fair legal procedures that protect rights before deprivation of liberty or property.

A statement made by a person believing death is imminent, admissible in limited circumstances.

A legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose.

A legal challenge to the validity of an election or its results.

A legal claim or liability on property, such as a charge or easement.

Principles of fairness developed by courts to supplement strict legal rules.

A rule preventing a party from denying something they previously represented and another relied on.

Material presented to prove or disprove facts in issue before a court or tribunal.