Legal Terminology and Courtroom Procedures Flashcards

What does 'in limine' mean when an attorney files a motion in limine?

Answer: At the threshold — to exclude certain evidence before trial

A motion in limine is filed to exclude potentially prejudicial evidence before trial begins.

What is a 'subpoena duces tecum'?

Answer: A command to produce documents or physical evidence

A subpoena duces tecum orders a party to bring specified documents or records to court.

In US courts, the term 'overruled' from a judge in response to an objection means what?

Answer: The objection is denied and the witness may answer

When a judge overrules an objection, the questioning may continue and the witness must answer.

What is 'hearsay' evidence in US federal court?

Answer: An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted

Hearsay is an out-of-court statement introduced to prove the truth of what was stated, generally inadmissible.

What does the Latin phrase 'nolo contendere' mean as a legal plea?

Answer: I do not contest it — accepting punishment without admitting guilt

Nolo contendere means the defendant does not contest the charges but does not admit guilt.

The phrase 'res ipsa loquitur' is used in what type of legal argument?

Answer: Negligence cases where the accident itself implies fault

Res ipsa loquitur ('the thing speaks for itself') allows negligence to be inferred from the nature of an injury.