Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Grand jury A group of citizens impaneled to hear evidence and decide whether a defendant should be charged with a crime. The grand jury is used frequently in federal courts, but rarely in Utah state courtsA group of citizens impaneled to hear evidence and decide whether a defendant should be charged with a crime. The grand jury is used frequently in federal courts, but rarely in Utah state courts Multiplicity of actions Numerous and unnecessary attempts to litigate the same issue. Decree A decision or order of the court. A final decree is one, which fully and finally disposes of the litigation. An interlocutory decree is a preliminary decree, which is not final. Embezzlement The fraudulent appropriation by a person to his own use or benefit of property or money entrusted to him by another. Sentence An order issued by a judge or magistrate commanding a sheriff, constable, or other officer to search a specified location. Admission statement tending to establish the guilt or liability of the person making the statement. Clerk of the court Court official who keeps court records, files pleadings, motions, and judgments, and administers the oath to jurors and witnesses Court reporter A court official who records testimony and arguments, and transcribes it into a permanent record of all court proceedings.

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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.