Family Law

A branch of the Superior Court to which a spouse may apply in an effort to preserve a marriage or from whom a parent may request assistance in settling disputes regarding children.  Services provided may include: parent education classes, counseling, mediation, parenting conferences, evaluations, and parenting coordination.

The decision made by the judge by applying the law to the facts of the case.

An elected official whose primary duty is to deliver and return legal notices and documents as directed by a Justice of the Peace.

A willful disregard or disobedience of the order of the court.

An action in which the defendant opposes the relief sought by the plaintiff.

Postponement (delay) of a court hearing.

An agreement that may be enforceable through a court action.

A decision by the judge or a verdict by the jury determining that a person charged with a criminal offense is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

See Lawyer or Attorney at Law in this Glossary.

A claim asserted by a defendant against the plaintiff.

Attorney elected in each county to prosecute criminal cases on behalf of the public and to represent the county in civil matters.

Person who assists the presiding judge in managing the court.

Person with authority to do the job of a judge in certain types of cases.

Courts in which a record is made of all proceedings. Justice of the Peace and Municipal Courts are not courts of record, but they sometimes do keep records of court proceedings.

A person who records courtroom proceedings in order to be able to produce a transcript of the proceeding.

Person in charge of making and keeping the docket of court proceedings and other court records.

An act forbidden by law and punishable by fine, probation, imprisonment or death.

See Parental Rights and Responsibilities in this Glossary. Now known as legal decision making and parenting time.