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Caption
The heading or introductory clause of papers connected with a case in court, which shows the names of the parties, name of the court, docket number of the case, etc
presentment
In felony cases, the first appearance before a judge at which the defendant is formally notified of the charges and a date is set for a preliminary hearing. No plea is entered at this stage. If, after the preliminary hearing, the case is bound over to the District Court, the defendant will enter a plea during arraignment in District Court. (Presentment is often incorrectly called arraignment.)
Of counsel
A phrase commonly applied to counsel employed to assist in the preparation or management of the case, or its presentation on appeal, but who is not the principal attorney for the party.
Power of attorney
A written instrument authorizing another (not necessarily a lawyer) to act as one's agent or attorney.
Estoppel
A person's own act, or acceptance of facts, which preclude later claims to the contrary.
Precedent
A rule of law that is established by an appellate court in an earlier case serves as binding precedent in all subsequent similar cases.
Misdemeanor
A minor offense, lower than a felony, which is punishable by a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine, but not prison. Misdemeanors are classified into three categories: Class A, B, and C.
Exclusionary rule
A rule by which evidence that was obtained illegally cannot be used in a criminal trial against a defendant. Also, in criminal cases, a rule which prevents witnesses from observing each other testify or from discussing testimony during the course of the proceedings.
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