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.
Capital Offense -
A crime punishable by death.
Case File -
A complete collection of every document filed in court in a case.
Case Law -
The law as established in previous court decisions. A synonym for legal precedent. Akin to common law, which springs from tradition and judicial decisions.
Caseload -
The number of cases handled by a judge or a court.
Cause of Action - A legal claim.
Chambers -
The offices of a judge and his or her staff.
Chapter 11 -
A reorganization bankruptcy, usually involving a corporation or partnership. A Chapter 11 debtor usually proposes a plan of reorganization to keep its business alive and pay creditors over time. Individuals or people in business can also seek relief in Chapter 11.
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All terms and definitions on this page are from uscourts.gov/glossary (April 13, 2020)