Vocabulary Words Every Legal Receptionist Should Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting

Definition: A gathering of people to discuss something.

• We have a meeting to plan the event.
• She prepared for the meeting with her team.
• The meeting will start at 3 PM sharp.

Meeting in a sentence

Office

Definition: A place where people work, often in an administrative capacity.

• She works in an office downtown.
• They have a meeting in the office tomorrow.
• His office is very organized and tidy.

Office in a sentence

Phone

Definition: A device used for communication, typically by voice.

• I called my friend on my phone.
• She sent a message on her phone.
• Please turn off your phone during class.

Phone in a sentence

Appointment

Definition: A scheduled meeting or arrangement.

• I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon.
• She made an appointment to see the dentist.
• His appointment was confirmed by email.

Appointment in a sentence

Schedule

Definition: A plan that shows when tasks or events will happen.

• I have a busy schedule this week.
• She made a schedule for her study time.
• They checked the schedule for movie times.

Schedule 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

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

Answer

Definition: A response to a question or problem.

• Please provide an answer to the math question.
• She raised her hand to give the answer in class.
• Understanding how to answer questions is essential for learning.

Answer in a sentence

Request

Definition: To ask for something formally or politely.

• He made a request for extra time on the assignment.
• She sent a request to join the club.
• Understanding how to make a request can improve communication.

Request in a sentence

Mail

Definition: Letters and packages sent through the postal system.

• I received a letter in the mail today.
• She loves to send postcards through the mail.
• Mail can take several days to arrive.

Mail in a sentence

Support

Definition: To help or provide assistance to someone or something.

• Friends should support each other.
• The community came together to support the event.
• We need to support local businesses.

Support in a sentence

Message

Definition: A piece of information sent from one person to another.

• I received a message from my friend.
• Please send me a message when you arrive.
• The message was clear and easy to understand.

Message in a sentence

Form

Definition: The shape or structure of something; also can mean to create.

• The teacher asked us to fill out a form.
• He likes to form new ideas during discussions.
• Understanding the different forms of art can enhance appreciation.

Form in a sentence

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

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

Service

Definition: The action of helping or doing work for someone.

• The restaurant provides excellent service to its customers.
• We offer a service to help students with their studies.
• Volunteering is a way to give back to the community through service.

Service in a sentence

Information

Definition: Facts or details about a subject.

• I need more information about the project.
• The teacher provides information on how to study.
• You can find information online for your research.

Information 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

Invoice

Definition: A document that itemizes and records a transaction between a buyer and a seller.

• The company sent an invoice for the services provided.
• She checked the invoice for any errors before paying.
• An invoice is usually due within 30 days.

Invoice in a sentence

Procedure

Definition: a series of steps to accomplish a task

• Follow the procedure to complete the assignment.
• The procedure for the experiment was explained.
• He learned the procedure for making cookies.

Procedure in a sentence

Statement

Definition: A clear expression of something in speech or writing.

• The teacher asked for a statement about the project.
• He made a statement about his favorite book.
• She wrote a statement to explain her opinion.

Statement 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

Assistant

Definition: A person who helps or assists in a specific task or role.

• The waiter was a helpful assistant during dinner.
• She worked as an assistant to the school principal.
• His assistant organized his schedule for the week.

Assistant 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

Consultation

Definition: A meeting to discuss or seek advice on a topic.

• She had a consultation with a doctor.
• The consultation helped clarify their options.
• They scheduled a consultation for the project.

Consultation 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

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

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

Hearing

Definition: The ability to perceive sounds; also refers to a formal meeting to listen to evidence.

• Her hearing is very sharp, and she notices sounds easily.
• The judge scheduled a hearing for the case next week.
• He had difficulty hearing in noisy environments.

Hearing 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

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

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

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

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

Filing

Definition: The process of organizing and storing documents or information.

• She spent the afternoon filing important papers.
• He is responsible for filing all the reports.
• Understanding filing systems is essential for organization.

Filing 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

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

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

Brief

Definition: Short in duration or extent; concise.

• He gave a brief summary of the meeting.
• The teacher's explanation was brief and clear.
• We had a brief chat before class started.

Brief 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

Regulation

Definition: A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.

• The regulation ensures safety.
• They followed the regulation carefully.
• New regulation was introduced for better practices.

Regulation in a sentence

Compliance

Definition: Following rules or standards.

• The company is in compliance with safety regulations.
• They ensured compliance with the new laws.
• She checked for compliance with the guidelines.

Compliance in a sentence

Docket

Definition: A list of items, such as cases or tasks, to be discussed or acted upon.

• The docket included several important cases for review.
• The judge reviewed the docket before the session started.
• Checking the docket helps keep track of pending matters.

Docket in a sentence

Claim

Definition: To state something as a fact or to assert a right to something.

• He will claim his prize at the ceremony.
• She made a claim about her invention.
• You need to claim your lost items at the office.

Claim 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

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

Motion

Definition: The act of moving or changing position.

• The motion of the car was smooth on the road.
• He studied the motion of planets in science.
• Her hand made a motion to wave goodbye.

Motion 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

Representation

Definition: The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone; a portrayal of something.

• The representation of diverse characters is important in media.
• He was chosen for representation at the conference.
• Her artwork is a representation of her culture.

Representation 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

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

Retainer

Definition: A fee paid in advance to secure services, often from a professional.

• She paid a retainer to the lawyer for ongoing legal advice.
• The consultant requires a retainer for their services.
• With a retainer, you ensure access to expert help when needed.

Retainer in a sentence

Summons

Definition: a legal document ordering someone to attend court

• She received a summons for jury duty.
• The lawyer presented the summons to the defendant.
• He was surprised by the summons in the mail.

Summons in a sentence

Exhibit

Definition: A display or presentation of items, often in a museum.

• The museum will exhibit ancient artifacts.
• We visited the art exhibit downtown.
• She created an exhibit for her science project.

Exhibit in a sentence

Testimony

Definition: A formal statement or evidence, often given in court; personal account of an experience.

• Her testimony helped the jury understand the case.
• He gave a testimony about his experience.
• The testimony was important for the trial.

Testimony 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

Resolution

Definition: A firm decision to do or not do something; also refers to solving a problem.

• She made a resolution to exercise more this year.
• The resolution of the conflict took time.
• He found a resolution to his problem after thinking.

Resolution in a sentence

Counsel

Definition: To give advice or guidance to someone; also refers to a person who provides support.

• She went to a counselor for help with her studies.
• He decided to counsel students in need.
• The teacher offered counsel on how to improve grades.

Counsel in a sentence

Paralegal

Definition: A person trained to assist lawyers in legal work but not qualified to practice law.

• The paralegal prepared documents for the trial.
• She works as a paralegal in a law firm.
• Paralegals play an important role in legal processes.

Paralegal in a sentence

Notary

Definition: A person authorized to perform certain legal formalities, such as witnessing signatures.

• The notary signed the documents after verification.
• She took the papers to a notary for notarization.
• Understanding the role of a notary is important for legal matters.

Notary in a sentence

Records

Definition: Documents or pieces of information that are kept for reference or evidence.

• The school keeps records of all student grades.
• She checked the records for attendance.
• Understanding records is important for organization.

Correspondence

Definition: Written communication, often between people or organizations.

• She kept a correspondence with her pen pal in another country.
• The company values correspondence with its customers.
• Understanding correspondence is important in business communication.

Correspondence in a sentence

Notarization

Definition: The official process of certifying a document's authenticity by a notary public.

• The notarization of the contract was necessary for it to be valid.
• She arranged for the notarization of her will.
• Understanding notarization is important for legal documents.

Notarization 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

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

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

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

Ex Parte

Definition: A legal term meaning one-sided or involving only one party.

• The judge made an ex parte decision without hearing from both sides.
• In ex parte hearings, only one party presents their case.
• Understanding ex parte rules is important in legal matters.

Admissible

Definition: able to be accepted or allowed

• Her testimony was deemed admissible in court.
• The evidence is admissible for the trial.
• We learned what makes information admissible.

Admissible in a sentence

Sanctions

Definition: Official penalties or restrictions imposed on individuals or countries.

• Economic sanctions were placed on the country.
• Sanctions can affect international relations.
• The UN imposed sanctions to encourage compliance.

Evidentiary

Definition: Relating to evidence or its use in legal contexts.

• The evidentiary rules guided the trial process.
• She studied evidentiary standards in law school.
• Understanding evidentiary concepts is crucial in court.

Evidentiary 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

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

Jurisdictional

Definition: Related to the authority of a court or organization to make legal decisions.

• The jurisdictional rules determine which court hears the case.
• She questioned the jurisdictional limits of the court.
• Understanding jurisdictional matters is crucial in law.

Jurisdictional 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

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

Conservatorship

Definition: A legal concept where a person is appointed to manage the affairs of another due to incapacity.

• The court established a conservatorship for the elderly man.
• Understanding conservatorship is important in legal matters.
• She learned about conservatorship in her law class.

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

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

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

Litigation Support

Definition: assistance provided during legal disputes

• Litigation support includes gathering evidence and research.
• She works in litigation support to help lawyers.
• Understanding litigation support is important for legal processes.

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.

Enforceability

Definition: the ability to be enforced or upheld

• The contract's enforceability depends on its terms.
• They discussed the enforceability of the new policy.
• Understanding enforceability is crucial in legal matters.

Enforceability in a sentence

Actionable

Definition: Capable of being acted upon; practical.

• The advice she gave was actionable and could be used immediately.
• He found the feedback actionable and improved his project.
• The list provided actionable steps for improving his study habits.

Actionable in a sentence

Breach

Definition: An act of breaking or failing to observe a law, obligation, or standard.

• The breach of the contract led to a lawsuit.
• They reported a security breach in the system.
• Understanding breach helps in managing risks.

Breach in a sentence

Counterclaim

Definition: A claim made to offset another claim in a legal case.

• The lawyer filed a counterclaim against the plaintiff.
• His counterclaim argued that he was not at fault.
• Understanding counterclaims is important in legal studies.

Counterclaim in a sentence

Writ

Definition: A formal written order or document from a court.

• The lawyer filed a writ to protect his client.
• She received a writ to appear in court.
• The writ explained the legal actions required.

Writ in a sentence

Claimant

Definition: A person making a claim, often in legal or insurance contexts.

• The claimant submitted the necessary documents for review.
• Each claimant must provide evidence to support their case.
• The court will decide if the claimant is entitled to compensation.

Claimant in a sentence

Respondent

Definition: A person who answers questions in a survey or study.

• The respondent provided valuable feedback about the product.
• We need more respondents for our research.
• Each respondent will receive a gift card for participating.

Respondent in a sentence

Probate

Definition: The legal process of verifying a will.

• The probate process can take several months.
• After his death, the family went through probate.
• Probate ensures that the deceased's wishes are followed.

Probate in a sentence

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

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

Punitive

Definition: Intended to punish someone.

• The judge imposed punitive measures on the offender.
• Punitive actions can deter bad behavior.
• They faced punitive consequences for their actions.

Punitive in a sentence

Mediation Agreement

Definition: a contract outlining the terms of mediation

• They signed a mediation agreement to settle their dispute.
• The mediation agreement included confidentiality clauses.
• Understanding the mediation agreement is essential for both parties.

Legal Brief

Definition: A written document summarizing a legal case or argument.

• The lawyer prepared a legal brief for the court.
• She reviewed the legal brief before the hearing.
• His legal brief highlighted key issues in the case.

Legal Brief in a sentence

Discovery Request

Definition: A formal request for information or documents, often in legal contexts.

• The lawyer submitted a discovery request for evidence.
• She learned about the discovery request in law class.
• Understanding discovery requests is crucial for legal proceedings.

Appellate

Definition: Related to the process of appeals in a court.

• The appellate court reviewed the case.
• Understanding appellate procedures is vital for lawyers.
• He studied appellate law in his legal classes.

Appellate in a sentence

Jurisdictional Challenge

Definition: A legal dispute regarding the authority of a court or body.

• The defendant raised a jurisdictional challenge in court.
• The jurisdictional challenge delayed the trial.
• They resolved the jurisdictional challenge early in the proceedings.

Legal Ethics

Definition: The moral principles that govern the behavior of legal professionals.

• Legal ethics ensure that lawyers act in the best interest of their clients.
• She studied legal ethics to understand professional responsibilities.
• Understanding legal ethics is crucial for maintaining integrity.

Case Law

Definition: Law established by the outcome of former court cases.

• Case law is important for understanding legal principles.
• They studied case law to prepare for the exam.
• Understanding case law helps in legal decision-making.

Case Law in a sentence

Tort Reform

Definition: Changes to the legal system that aim to reduce frivolous lawsuits.

• The government discussed tort reform to improve fairness.
• Tort reform can help businesses manage risks.
• Understanding tort reform is important for policymakers.

Arbitration Clause

Definition: a section in a contract requiring arbitration for disputes

• The arbitration clause helped avoid lengthy court battles.
• She included an arbitration clause in her contract.
• Understanding the arbitration clause is important before signing.

Arbitration Clause in a sentence

Settlement Agreement

Definition: A legal document that outlines the terms of a resolution between parties.

• They signed a settlement agreement to resolve the dispute.
• The settlement agreement included compensation terms.
• Understanding the settlement agreement was important for both sides.

Compliance Officer

Definition: A person responsible for ensuring a company meets legal standards.

• The compliance officer reviews policies to prevent violations.
• She works as a compliance officer in a large corporation.
• Every company should have a compliance officer for guidance.

Legal Precedent

Definition: previous court decisions that influence future cases

• Legal precedent plays a crucial role in shaping the law.
• The lawyer referenced legal precedent to support his argument.
• Understanding legal precedent is important in law.

Statutory Interpretation

Definition: The process of determining the meaning of laws.

• Statutory interpretation helps enforce laws correctly.
• Lawyers often engage in statutory interpretation during cases.
• Understanding statutory interpretation is important in legal studies.

Legal Memorandum.

Definition: A written document outlining legal reasoning or issues.

• The attorney drafted a legal memorandum for the case.
• She referred to the legal memorandum during the meeting.
• The legal memorandum summarized key points for review.