Legal Terms: J

The joining of parties or claims in a single lawsuit to promote judicial efficiency.

A legal doctrine making each defendant independently liable for the full amount of damages, regardless of their individual share of fault.

A form of co-ownership of property where two or more persons hold equal shares with the right of survivorship.

A public official appointed or elected to preside over and decide cases in a court of law.

The final decision of a court resolving the dispute between the parties and determining their rights and obligations.

A court's acceptance of a well-known fact without requiring formal proof, such as the date of a holiday or a scientific principle.

The power of courts to examine legislative and executive actions and determine whether they are constitutional.

The authority of a court to hear and decide a case. Includes subject-matter jurisdiction (types of cases) and personal jurisdiction (authority over parties).

The theory and philosophy of law, or the body of legal knowledge and principles.

A group of citizens selected to hear evidence in a trial and render a verdict based on the facts presented.

Directions given by a judge to a jury explaining the applicable law and how to apply it to the facts of the case.

The payment the government must make to a property owner when taking private property through eminent domain, typically fair market value.

A person who has not yet reached the age of legal majority (typically 18). Juvenile proceedings are generally separate from adult criminal proceedings.