Legal Terminology and Courtroom Procedures Flashcards

What is an 'ex parte' communication in the legal context?

Answer: A communication with the judge by only one party without notifying the other

An ex parte communication involves only one party contacting the judge, which is generally prohibited.

What is the purpose of a 'chain of custody' record in a legal proceeding?

Answer: To document every person who handled a piece of evidence

Chain of custody ensures evidence integrity by documenting every individual who handled it.

What is a 'continuance' in a legal proceeding?

Answer: A postponement of a scheduled court date to a later time

A continuance postpones a court proceeding to a future date, often granted for good cause.

What does 'pro se' mean in a US court case?

Answer: A party representing themselves without an attorney

Pro se is a Latin term for a litigant who acts as their own attorney in court.

In legal proceedings, what is a 'bench trial'?

Answer: A trial decided by the judge alone without a jury

In a bench trial, the judge serves as both the finder of fact and the arbiter of law.

What is the role of a 'court reporter' during trial proceedings?

Answer: To create a verbatim transcript of all spoken words in the proceeding

A court reporter produces a complete, verbatim record of all statements made during legal proceedings.