Process of trying to settle dispute without the court, but facilitated by a neutral intermediary

Contract becomes binding when acceptance is mailed

A written opinion which reflects the view of a majority of judges in a case

Unlawful conduct which interferes with fulfillment of a duty

Intent to harm another or willful and wanton disregard that harm will likely result

Malice without mitigating circumstances; need not be directed toward a particular person harmed; compare to premeditation

Improper conduct of professional who has a fiduciary relationship

Evil conduct of moral turpitude

Illegal or prohibited conduct not of moral turpitude

Command from court to an official person to perform an act of which is an absolute duty

e.g. when an appellate court communicates a command to lower court

Relationship between employer and employee stems from an express or implied employment contract; compare to AGENT; see also RESPONDEAT SUPERIOR

Pertinent or necessary; in contract law a material breach excuses contract performance for which an injured party can sue

Changes to a document that amends its legal purpose or implication

Situation of legal significance

Fact or subject of litigation

Agreed upon terms to a contract by all parties; not contradictory to legally enforce

Guilty state of mind; often a required element to prove a crime occurred

Business person routinely selling goods of a particular kind or holding self out to have special skills or knowledge of a business

A person less than legal age

Act that could be lawfully performed, but was done wrong or caused harm

Ignorance or misunderstanding which causes a result which would otherwise not occur with proper knowledge

Incorrect perception of facts or circumstances

Ignorance of law or its consequences

Declaration by judge that trial is void because of extreme circumstances; no judgment is rendered

Particular conditions of fact which lessen punishment or damages

Level of dishonesty which is unacceptable in society

Oral or written request to the court for an intermediary decision or action or relief in a pending court proceeding

Party making a motion

Making a motion

Facts not relevant to the issue; see also IMMATERIAL

An incorporated government district with legislative powers (e.g. towns, cities, villages)

Local court hearing cases of violations of local ordinances

Local-made law

All parties mistake on the same issue which did not reflect the intended agreement