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Petition
A civil pleading filed to initiate a matter in Juvenile Court, setting forth the alleged grounds for the court to take jurisdiction of the case and asking the court to do so and intervene.
Ordinance
A written law enacted by the legislative body of a county, city, or town.
Assumption of risk
In tort law, a defense to a personal injury suit. The essence of the defense is that the plaintiff assumed the known risk of whatever dangerous condition caused the injury
Costs
An allowance for expenses in prosecuting or defending a suit. Ordinarily this does not include attorney fees.
Witness
One who testifies under oath to what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed.
Arraignment
In a misdemeanor case, the initial appearance before a judge at which the criminal defendant enters a plea; in a felony case, the proceeding after the indictment or bindover at which the defendant comes before a judge in District Court, is informed of the charges, enters a plea, and has a date set for trial or disposition. In Juvenile Court, the first hearing after a petition has been filed.
In loco parentis
In the place of the parent"; refers to actions of a custodian, guardian or other person acting in the parent's place.
Exclusionary rule
A rule by which evidence that was obtained illegally cannot be used in a criminal trial against a defendant. Also, in criminal cases, a rule which prevents witnesses from observing each other testify or from discussing testimony during the course of the proceedings.
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