All terms

Legal Terms: O

Oath

general

A solemn promise to tell the truth or faithfully perform a duty, often invoking a higher power. Witnesses testify under oath.

Objection

evidence

A formal protest raised by an attorney during trial challenging the admissibility of evidence or the propriety of a question or procedure.

Obstruction of Justice

criminal

The crime of intentionally interfering with the administration of law, including tampering with evidence, intimidating witnesses, or lying to investigators.

Offer

contracts

A proposal by one party to another indicating a willingness to enter into a contract on specified terms.

Opening Statement

civil procedure

An attorney's introductory remarks at the beginning of a trial, outlining the evidence and arguments they intend to present.

Opinion

courts

A judge's written explanation of the court's decision, including the legal reasoning, analysis of facts, and conclusion.

Ordinance

general

A law enacted by a municipal or local government, such as a city or county.

Original Jurisdiction

courts

The authority of a court to hear a case for the first time, as opposed to appellate jurisdiction.

Overrule

courts

When a court rejects an objection during trial, allowing the evidence or question. Also, when a higher court sets aside a lower court's precedent.