Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Allegation The assertion, declaration, or statement of a party to an action, made in a pleading, establishing what the party expects to prove. Criminal case A case brought by the government against a person accused of committing a crime. Jurisdiction The legal authority of a court to hear a case or conduct other proceedings; power of the court over persons involved in a case and the subject matter of the case. Agent one who has authority to act for another Hung jury A jury that cannot agree on a final verdict. If a jury is hung, the court declares a mistrial and the case may be re-tried. Non compos mentis Not of sound mind; insane. Information The first paper filed in criminal prosecution, which states the crime of which the defendant is accused. Deposition The taking of testimony of a witness under oath outside of court, usually transcribed in writing by a court reporter, or less frequently, recorded on videotape.

IAre you currently seeking legal information regarding Montana laws? If so, contact one of our Montana attorneys today!

	Did You Know?
	Mediation has many qualities that make it appealing. In most cases, mediation is: conciliatory fair quick inexpensive voluntary confidential Mediation also has several key benefits. It promotes: greater participant control customized agreements workable decisions mutually satisfactory outcomes improved relationships high rates of compliance decisions that hold up over time