Common Legal Terminology

Brief -

A written statement submitted in a trial or appellate proceeding that explains one side’s legal and factual arguments.

Burden of Proof -

The duty to prove disputed facts. In civil cases, a plaintiff generally has the burden of proving his or her case. In criminal cases, the government has the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt. (See standard of proof.)

Business Bankruptcy -

A bankruptcy case in which the debtor is a business or an individual involved in business and the debts are for business purposes.

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All terms and definitions on this page are from uscourts.gov/glossary (April 13, 2020)