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Prejudicial evidence
Evidence which might unfairly sway the judge or jury to one side or the other. For example, photographs of a gory murder scene might inflame a jury without providing useful evidence. May be excluded in criminal cases if prejudicial effect outweighs probative value.
Fifth Amendment
Among other rights, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a person cannot be compelled to present self-incriminating testimony in a criminal (or juvenile) proceeding.
Circumstantial evidence
All evidence of an indirect nature. Testimony not based on actual personal knowledge or observation of the facts in controversy.
Domicile
That place where a person has his true and permanent home. A person may have several residences, but only one domicile
Multiplicity of actions
Numerous and unnecessary attempts to litigate the same issue.
Appellate jurisdiction
The appellate court has the right to review and revise the lower court decision.
Arraignment
In a misdemeanor case, the initial appearance before a judge at which the criminal defendant enters a plea; in a felony case, the proceeding after the indictment or bindover at which the defendant comes before a judge in District Court, is informed of the charges, enters a plea, and has a date set for trial or disposition. In Juvenile Court, the first hearing after a petition has been filed.
Plaintiff
A person who files a lawsuit.
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