Chapter 2 Terminology: The Legal System

Question 1

Breach

Answer 1

When a party fails to comply with the terms of an agreement; neglect of a legally binding agreement

Question 2

Deposition

Answer 2

Testimony (oral) given before an officer of the court

Question 3

Plaintiff

Answer 3

A person or group of people suing another person or group of people; person who instigates the lawsuit.

Question 4

Defendant

Answer 4

Person or group being sued civilly or being prosecuted criminally in a court of law

Question 5

Felony

Answer 5

Criminal act that carries a punishment of death or imprisonment of over a year

Question 6

Misdemeanor

Answer 6

Less serious offense than felony; punishment by fines and imprisonment for up to a year

Question 7

Waive

Answer 7

To give up a right

Question 8

Tort

Answer 8

Civil injury or wrongful act that is committed against another person or property, resulting in harm. Compensated monetarily

Question 9

Subpoena

Answer 9

Court order to appear in court and bring records

Question 10

Precedent

Answer 10

A ruling of an earlier case that is then applied to a subsequent similar case