Saturday 4 February 2012

Discovering Legal Vocabulary Part II.

The language of law is both familiar and foreign. It is familiar because it is part of our lives. It is useful to know and understand legal terminology. The study of legal terminology is very particular and the words used are precise. Small variations and interpretations of the words may lead to major differences in legal decisions. By using correct legal terminology we can justify and support our opinions, be effective and efficient in conducting productive legal research as well as make inferences based on facts. The knowledge of legal terminology is also necessary to summarize legal case and to identify legal concepts.The meaning of legal terms is critical in understanding of a case or a statute.  

Appellant- the person launching  an appeal to a higher court in a legal action.

Arbitrary- without reason or judgement 

Arbitration- a form of dispute or resolution in which a neutral third party hears a dispute between two parties and then makes a decision, which both parties have agreed to follow. 

Arms embargo- a particular type of sanction that prohibits the supply of arms or other military equipment to designated countries.

Assumption of sovereignty- for the purpose of defining Aboriginal rights, the requirement for proof of occupation of the land prior to the time of European contact and control. 

Atheist- a person who does not believe in the existence of God or gods. 

Attaches- technical experts on a diplomatic staff(military attaches). 

Authority- legal power to command, act, implement and enforce laws 

Automatism- the state in which a person has no conscious control over his or her actions: a defence used  so that people in this state cannot be found criminally responsible.

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