Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Et al An abbreviation of et alii, meaning "and others," ordinarily used in lieu of listing all names of persons involved in a proceeding. Foster care A form of substitute care, usually in a home licensed by a public agency, for children whose welfare requires removal from their homes Remand Evidence that helps to prove a point or issue in a case. Parole A procedure in which a parole board releases a convict on good behavior before the maximum sentence expires. Criminal case A case brought by the government against a person accused of committing a crime. Custody The right to or responsibility for a child's care and control, carrying with it the duty of providing food, shelter, medical care, education and discipline. Quid pro quo To overthrow; vacate; to annul or void a summons, indictment, bindover order or subpoena. Plea The defendant's formal response to a criminal charge (guilty, not guilty, nolo contendere, not guilty by reason of insanity, and guilty and mentally ill).

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	Did You Know?
	The mediation process may vary depending on the mediator. Generally, mediations commence with a general session with all parties, counsel and the mediator. At the general session, there will be a discussion of the case, the issues on appeal and other matters important to settlement. Then the mediator will meet separately with each party and their counsel in separate "caucuses." In these separate sessions, the mediator will seek to foster negotiations between the parties and develop agreement.