Vocabulary Words Every Lawyer Should Know

Law

Definition: A system of rules created by a government.

• Everyone must follow the law.
• She studied law at university.
• The law protects people's rights.

Law in a sentence

Court

Definition: A place where legal cases are heard.

• The judge works in a court.
• He went to court for the trial.
• The court decides on important matters.

Court in a sentence

Judge

Definition: To form an opinion about something; a person who decides in legal cases.

• It's not fair to judge someone without knowing them.
• The judge made a decision in the case.
• I try not to judge people too quickly.

Judge in a sentence

Case

Definition: A particular situation or example.

• In this case, we need to find a solution.
• The teacher explained the case of the missing book.
• He carried his glasses in a protective case.

Case in a sentence

Trial

Definition: A test of performance, quality, or suitability; a legal process.

• They will conduct a trial for the new product.
• The trial was held in the courtroom.
• She is participating in a trial for a medication.

Trial in a sentence

Lawyer

Definition: A professional who practices law and represents clients in legal matters.

• The lawyer prepared the case for court.
• She wants to become a lawyer to help others.
• Understanding the role of a lawyer is crucial in legal issues.

Lawyer in a sentence

Client

Definition: A person or organization that receives services from a professional.

• The lawyer met with a client to discuss the case.
• She is a client at the local hair salon.
• The company values every client highly.

Client in a sentence

Crime

Definition: An act that breaks the law.

• The police are investigating a crime in the area.
• Stealing is a serious crime.
• He read a book about crime and its consequences.

Crime in a sentence

Evidence

Definition: the information that helps prove something

• The detective found evidence at the scene.
• She presented evidence to support her argument.
• The evidence showed that he was telling the truth.

Evidence in a sentence

Witness

Definition: A person who sees an event, often a crime, and can provide information.

• The witness testified at the trial.
• She was a witness to the accident and reported it.
• Witnesses play a crucial role in legal cases.

Witness in a sentence

Rule

Definition: A statement that tells what is allowed or what will happen.

• The teacher made a rule about talking in class.
• We follow the rules to keep everyone safe.
• It's important to know the rules of the game.

Rule in a sentence

Right

Definition: Morally good, justified, or acceptable.

• It is right to help others.
• She knows the right answer.
• Everyone has the right to be treated fairly.

Right in a sentence

Wrong

Definition: Not correct or true; mistaken.

• That answer is wrong; try again.
• She felt wrong about not helping her friend.
• Understanding what is wrong helps us learn from mistakes.

Wrong in a sentence

Sign

Definition: A symbol or notice that provides information or directions.

• The sign shows where to find the restrooms.
• Please read the sign before entering.
• They put up a sign for the event.

Sign in a sentence

Paper

Definition: A material used for writing or printing; a document.

• I need paper to write my notes.
• The teacher handed out paper for the test.
• She drew a picture on a piece of paper.

Paper in a sentence

File

Definition: A collection of documents or data stored together.

• I need to organize my files on the computer.
• He saved the file in a new folder.
• Please check the file for the latest updates.

File in a sentence

Book

Definition: A set of written pages bound together.

• I am reading a storybook.
• She borrowed a book from the library.
• He wrote a book about history.

Book in a sentence

Help

Definition: To assist someone with something.

• Can you help me with my homework?
• She helped her mother in the kitchen.
• He always helps his friends.

Help in a sentence

Speak

Definition: To say words aloud; to talk.

• He can speak three languages.
• Please speak clearly so everyone can understand.
• I like to speak in front of my class.

Speak in a sentence

Ask

Definition: To request information or help from someone.

• I will ask my teacher a question.
• Can you ask your friend to join us?
• It's polite to ask for permission before taking something.

Ask in a sentence

Agreement

Definition: A mutual understanding or arrangement between parties.

• They reached an agreement after much discussion.
• The agreement was signed by both sides.
• He made a written agreement with the landlord.

Agreement in a sentence

Document

Definition: A written or printed paper that provides information.

• Please sign the document.
• I need to read this document carefully.
• They stored the document in a safe place.

Document in a sentence

Appeal

Definition: to make a request for a decision to be reviewed

• The student decided to appeal the exam results.
• His speech had an emotional appeal that moved many.
• Understanding appeal helps in discussions about rights.

Appeal in a sentence

Sentence

Definition: A set of words that expresses a complete thought.

• Can you write a sentence using this word?
• Every sentence needs a subject and a verb.
• I enjoy reading long sentences in books.

Sentence in a sentence

Fine

Definition: Of high quality; also refers to a monetary penalty.

• The artwork was of fine quality and very detailed.
• He had to pay a fine for parking.
• She received a fine for being late to class.

Fine in a sentence

Guilty

Definition: Feeling responsible for committing a wrongdoing or crime.

• He felt guilty for not telling the truth.
• She looked guilty after breaking the vase.
• The guilty student apologized for his actions.

Guilty in a sentence

Innocent

Definition: not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing

• She was found innocent of all charges.
• His innocent smile made her laugh.
• The innocent child played happily in the park.

Innocent in a sentence

Contract

Definition: A formal agreement between two or more parties.

• They signed a contract for the new job.
• The contract outlines the terms of the agreement.
• It's important to read a contract carefully before signing.

Contract in a sentence

Plaintiff

Definition: A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.

• The plaintiff argued that the contract was broken.
• In the trial, the plaintiff presented evidence to support her claim.
• The plaintiff is seeking damages for the accident.

Plaintiff in a sentence

Defendant

Definition: A person accused of a crime in a court of law.

• The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
• The lawyer defended the defendant during the trial.
• He was nervous as the defendant in the case.

Defendant in a sentence

Jury

Definition: A group of people chosen to listen to evidence in a court and make a decision.

• The jury will decide if the defendant is guilty or not.
• She was selected to serve on the jury this week.
• The jury listened carefully to all the testimonies.

Jury in a sentence

Settlement

Definition: An official agreement or a community where people live.

• The peace settlement ended the conflict.
• They moved to a new settlement in the countryside.
• The settlement was established many years ago.

Settlement in a sentence

Legal

Definition: Relating to the law; permitted by law.

• It is legal to drive at age sixteen in our state.
• We should follow all legal rules in our community.
• He studied legal issues in school.

Legal in a sentence

Attorney

Definition: A person who is licensed to practice law and represent clients.

• He hired an attorney to help with his case.
• The attorney explained the legal process to her.
• She wants to become an attorney after finishing law school.

Attorney in a sentence

Lawsuit

Definition: A legal case brought by one person against another in court.

• She filed a lawsuit against the company.
• The lawsuit was settled out of court.
• They discussed the details of the lawsuit in class.

Lawsuit in a sentence

Damages

Definition: Money awarded to a person as compensation for loss or injury.

• The court awarded her damages for the accident.
• He filed a claim for damages to his property.
• Understanding damages is crucial in legal matters.

Damages in a sentence

Liability

Definition: the state of being responsible for something, especially in law

• He accepted liability for the accident.
• The company has a liability to its employees.
• Understanding liability is important in business.

Liability in a sentence

Ruling

Definition: an official decision made by a judge or authority

• The court issued a ruling on the case.
• Her ruling was based on the evidence presented.
• They were waiting for the ruling from the judge.

Ruling in a sentence

Prosecution

Definition: The legal party that brings a case against someone in a court.

• The prosecution presented strong evidence.
• The prosecution argued for a tough sentence.
• He worked for the prosecution in criminal cases.

Prosecution in a sentence

Defense

Definition: The action of protecting someone or something; also refers to a legal argument.

• The defense presented evidence to support his case.
• She practiced her defense skills in the tournament.
• Understanding defense strategies can enhance safety and legal knowledge.

Defense in a sentence

Mediation

Definition: A process where a neutral third party helps resolve a dispute between two sides.

• Mediation can help settle conflicts without going to court.
• She acted as a mediator during the discussion.
• Understanding mediation techniques can help in negotiations.

Mediation in a sentence

Litigation

Definition: The process of taking legal action; a lawsuit.

• Litigation can be expensive and time-consuming.
• They decided to avoid litigation and settle.
• She studied litigation in law school.

Litigation in a sentence

Jurisdiction

Definition: The official power to make legal decisions and judgments; the area of authority.

• The court has jurisdiction over criminal cases.
• Understanding jurisdiction is important in law.
• They debated the jurisdiction of the local court.

Jurisdiction in a sentence

Statute

Definition: A written law passed by a legislative body.

• The new statute aims to protect the environment.
• She learned about the statute during her civics class.
• Understanding statutes is important for knowing our rights.

Statute in a sentence

Affidavit

Definition: a written statement made under oath

• He signed an affidavit to confirm his identity.
• The lawyer submitted an affidavit to the court.
• An affidavit is often used as evidence in legal matters.

Affidavit in a sentence

Deposition

Definition: a formal statement made under oath; the act of removing someone from office

• The lawyer took her deposition on the events of that day.
• His deposition was crucial to the case.
• They scheduled a deposition for next week.

Deposition in a sentence

Arbitration

Definition: A process where a neutral third party helps resolve disputes between two sides.

• Arbitration is often used to settle business disagreements.
• They agreed to arbitration to avoid going to court.
• Understanding arbitration can help in conflict resolution.

Arbitration in a sentence

Negligence

Definition: failure to take proper care; lack of attention

• His negligence led to an accident at work.
• Understanding negligence is essential in law.
• She was sued for negligence after the incident.

Negligence in a sentence

Tort

Definition: A wrongful act leading to legal liability; a civil wrong.

• A tort can result in a lawsuit.
• She filed a tort claim for damages.
• Understanding tort law is important for legal studies.

Tort in a sentence

Injunction

Definition: a legal order that requires someone to do or refrain from doing something

• The court issued an injunction against the company.
• An injunction can stop harmful activities.
• She filed for an injunction to protect her rights.

Injunction in a sentence

Verdict

Definition: A decision made by a jury or judge in a court case.

• The jury reached a verdict after hours of deliberation.
• The verdict was announced in the courtroom.
• He awaited the verdict with anxiety.

Verdict in a sentence

Adjudicate

Definition: to make a formal judgment or decision

• The committee will adjudicate the dispute.
• He was chosen to adjudicate the competition.
• They hope to adjudicate the case quickly.

Adjudicate in a sentence

Jurisprudence

Definition: The theory or philosophy of law and legal systems.

• Jurisprudence examines the principles behind laws.
• He studied jurisprudence to understand legal reasoning.
• Understanding jurisprudence is essential for aspiring lawyers.

Jurisprudence in a sentence

Indemnity

Definition: Security or protection against a financial loss or damage.

• The policy offered indemnity against theft.
• They sought indemnity for damages caused by the storm.
• Indemnity clauses are common in contracts.

Indemnity in a sentence

Subpoena

Definition: A legal document that orders someone to appear in court or produce evidence.

• She received a subpoena to testify as a witness.
• The lawyer issued a subpoena for the missing documents.
• He was nervous about the subpoena he received in the mail.

Subpoena in a sentence

Precedent

Definition: An action or decision that serves as an example for future situations.

• The court's ruling set a legal precedent.
• They referred to a precedent in their argument.
• Understanding precedent is crucial in law and governance.

Precedent in a sentence

Due Diligence

Definition: The careful review and consideration of important information.

• Due diligence is necessary before making big decisions.
• He conducted due diligence before investing in the company.
• Performing due diligence helps prevent mistakes.

Statutory

Definition: Related to laws or statutes; legally required.

• Statutory regulations must be followed by companies.
• He learned about statutory obligations in class.
• The government set statutory guidelines for safety.

Statutory in a sentence

Tortfeasor

Definition: A person or entity that commits a tort.

• The tortfeasor was held responsible for the damages.
• Understanding the role of a tortfeasor is important in law.
• In court, the tortfeasor must justify their actions.

Tortfeasor in a sentence

Discovery

Definition: The act of finding or learning something new.

• The scientist made a great discovery.
• Her discovery changed the way we think about health.
• They celebrated the discovery of a new species.

Discovery in a sentence

Jurisprudential

Definition: Relating to the theory or philosophy of law.

• The jurisprudential aspects of the case were debated.
• She took a jurisprudential approach to the legal issue.
• His jurisprudential perspective influenced the decision.

Jurisprudential in a sentence

Adversarial

Definition: Involving opposition or conflict.

• The adversarial nature of the debate made it intense.
• Adversarial relationships can create tension in teams.
• He preferred collaborative rather than adversarial approaches.

Adversarial in a sentence

Equitable

Definition: Fair and just; treating everyone in a way that is fair.

• The teacher strives to create an equitable classroom.
• They discussed equitable solutions for the community.
• Understanding equitable practices can promote fairness.

Equitable in a sentence

Contractual

Definition: Related to formal agreements or contracts.

• They have a contractual obligation to meet deadlines.
• She reviewed the contractual terms carefully.
• Contractual agreements protect both parties involved.

Contractual in a sentence

Fiduciary

Definition: A person entrusted with the responsibility to manage someone else's money or assets.

• A fiduciary must act in the best interest of their clients.
• He serves as a fiduciary for the family trust.
• Understanding fiduciary duties is essential in finance.

Fiduciary in a sentence

Exculpatory

Definition: Serves to clear someone from blame or guilt; proving innocence.

• The exculpatory evidence was crucial in the trial.
• He provided exculpatory statements to help his case.
• Exculpatory documents can change outcomes.

Exculpatory in a sentence

Amicus Curiae

Definition: A legal term for someone who is not a party to a case but offers information.

• The amicus curiae provided valuable insights for the court.
• They submitted a brief as an amicus curiae.
• An amicus curiae can influence legal decisions.

Amicus Curiae in a sentence

Res Judicata

Definition: a legal doctrine preventing the same issue from being tried again

• The case was dismissed under res judicata.
• Understanding res judicata is important in law.
• Res judicata protects against double jeopardy.

Res Judicata in a sentence

Estoppel

Definition: A legal principle that prevents someone from arguing something contrary to a previous claim or behavior.

• The court applied estoppel to ensure fairness in the case.
• Understanding estoppel is important in contract law.
• He invoked estoppel to support his argument.

Estoppel in a sentence

Tortious

Definition: Relating to or involving a tort; wrongful act leading to civil legal liability.

• His actions were considered tortious and led to a lawsuit.
• Understanding tortious behavior helps in legal cases.
• A tortious act can result in compensation for damages.

Tortious in a sentence

Codification

Definition: The process of organizing and systematizing laws or rules.

• The codification of laws makes them easier to understand.
• She studied the codification of legal systems.
• Codification helps ensure consistency in rules.

Codification in a sentence

Litigate

Definition: To take a case to court; to engage in legal proceedings.

• They decided to litigate the contract dispute.
• He prefers to settle rather than litigate.
• Litigating can be a long and costly process.

Litigate in a sentence

Jurisprudentially

Definition: In a way that relates to the theory of law.

• The case was examined jurisprudentially by the scholars.
• They approached the issue jurisprudentially to find solutions.
• Jurisprudentially, the law has evolved over time.

Adjudication

Definition: the process of making a formal judgment

• The adjudication of the case took several months.
• We learned about adjudication in law class.
• Adjudication helps resolve disputes fairly.

Adjudication in a sentence

Remand

Definition: To send someone back into custody or detention.

• The judge decided to remand the suspect for further investigation.
• He was remanded until the trial date.
• They were placed on remand while awaiting their hearing.

Remand in a sentence

Mala Fide

Definition: in bad faith; with dishonest intent

• The contract was signed mala fide, leading to disputes.
• She accused him of mala fide actions in the deal.
• His mala fide intent was clear to everyone involved.

Mala Fide in a sentence

Perjury

Definition: The act of lying under oath, especially in a court of law.

• He was charged with perjury for his false testimony.
• Understanding perjury is important in legal studies.
• She learned about the consequences of perjury in class.

Perjury in a sentence

Subrogation

Definition: The legal right for one party to pursue a claim for damages after paying a debt or claim.

• Subrogation allows the insurance company to recover costs.
• He learned about subrogation in his law class.
• Subrogation is important in insurance claims.

Subrogation in a sentence

Probative

Definition: Having the effect of proving something; providing evidence.

• The evidence was deemed probative in court.
• Probative value is crucial in legal proceedings.
• Such facts are probative and can influence the case outcome.

Probative in a sentence

Conciliation

Definition: A method of resolving disputes by bringing parties together to reach an agreement.

• Conciliation helps maintain relationships while resolving issues.
• She participated in conciliation to settle the disagreement.
• Understanding conciliation promotes peaceful conflict resolution.

Conciliation in a sentence