General Legal Terms

An electronic method or process that through the application of a security procedure allows a determination that the electronic signature at the time it was executed was all of the following:

• Unique to the person using it.
• Capable of verification.
• Under the sole control of the person using it.
• Linked to the electronic document to which it relates in a manner so that if the document is changed the electronic signature is invalidated.

An electronic signature is an electronic symbol, usually /s/, followed by a typed name. For example, “/s/ John Doe,” is an electronic signature. The /s/ symbol means that the individual whose typed name appears next to it or below it intended that the typed name be treated as an original signature. An electronic signature is attached to a paper filed with the Clerk of the Court by the self-represented litigant or a judge of court.

Legal action that takes land, a residence, or property from the temporary resident and back into the possession of the owner or landlord.

Latin phrase for relief that is sought (and may be granted) without notice to the opposing person. Commonly used in obtaining an order of protection.

To be released or cleared of charges, to acquit

Fines/Fees and Restitution Enforcement Program is a collection program for the courts.

A serious crime, punishable by imprisonment by the Department of Corrections. In some cases, the death penalty may be imposed.

Court that has authority to hear all legal actions not assigned exclusively to another court.

A group of 12 to 16 citizens who usually serve a term of not more than 120 days to hear or investigate charges of criminal behavior. Their indictment, called a true bill, leads to a court trial of the person charged.

Documents that authorize someone to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis.

The total income before deductions, exemptions, or tax reductions.

A series of acts that happened over any period of time that are purposefully directed at a specific person. The acts are those that serve no legitimate purpose and would cause a reasonable person to be seriously alarmed, annoyed, or harassed. A single incident, no matter how bothersome, does not constitute harassment for purposes of a protective order.

A formal accusation by the Arizona House of Representatives that a public official committed misconduct in office.

Refers to a juvenile who is unmanageable by parents or guardians. Incorrigible offenses include running away and truancy.

A formal, written accusation by a grand jury charging that a person or business committed a specific crime.

The first appearance in court by the defendant in a criminal case.

A court order to stop doing a particular act.

Inability or lack of means to pay debts.

The public officer authorized to preside over, hear and determine cases in a court of law.

A person assigned to perform the duties of a judge on a temporary basis.

The official decision by a court regarding the rights and claims of the person to a civil or criminal lawsuit.