You need to enable JavaScript to run this app.
Palm of Deborah
Pro Se Academy
ES
Sign in
Create account
Legal terms in plain English
Search common court and legal words. Tap a term to learn more.
Plaintiff
The person or company that started the lawsuit.
Defendant
The person or company being sued.
Petitioner
The person who files a petition asking the court to act.
Respondent
The person who has to respond to a petition.
Summons
A legal notice telling you that you have been sued and must respond.
Complaint
The document that explains why the plaintiff is suing.
Answer
Your written response to a complaint.
Motion
A written request asking the judge to make a decision on something.
Hearing
A short court event where the judge listens to arguments and may make a decision.
Judgment
The court's final decision.
Default Judgment
A judgment entered because one side did not respond or show up.
Discovery
The process of exchanging information and documents before trial.
Subpoena
A court order requiring you to appear or produce documents.
Affidavit
A written statement made under oath.
Service
The official way of giving legal papers to someone.
Jurisdiction
The court's power to hear a case.
Venue
The location where a case should be filed.
Continuance
A postponement of a court date.
Appeal
Asking a higher court to review a decision.
Evidence
Anything used to prove or disprove a fact.
Testimony
A statement made under oath, usually in court.
Garnishment
A court order taking money from your paycheck or bank account.
Lien
A legal claim against your property to pay a debt.
Mediation
A meeting with a neutral person to try to reach an agreement.
Settlement
An agreement to resolve a case without going to trial.
Home
Learn
My Case
Practice
Resources
Ask Deborah