Legal language can feel confusing, especially when you’re dealing with a dispute, signing an agreement, or receiving a legal notice. This glossary breaks down common legal terms into simple, everyday language so non-lawyers can understand what they mean and how they are used.
1. Contract
- A contract is a legal agreement between two or more people.
- It becomes valid when everyone agrees to the terms and signs it.
- Example: Job contracts, rental agreements, partnership agreements.
2. Litigation
- Litigation means going to court to resolve a dispute.
- If negotiation or settlement fails, the matter is taken to court, where a judge makes the final decision.
3. Cognizable Offence
- A cognizable offence is a crime where the police can arrest without a warrant and start an investigation without court permission.
- This usually includes serious crimes like theft, assault, or fraud.
4. Non-Cognizable Offence
- For non-cognizable offences, police cannot arrest without a warrant.
- These are minor offences like public nuisance or simple harm.
5. Plaintiff / Complainant
- This is the person who files a case in court.
- They claim that someone has wronged them and ask for legal action.
6. Defendant / Respondent
- This is the person against whom the case is filed.
- In civil cases, they are called “defendant”; in family or special matters, they may be called “respondent.”
7. FIR (First Information Report)
- An FIR is the first written report recorded by police when a cognizable offence occurs.
- It starts the criminal investigation process.
8. Summons
- A summons is an official court notice asking someone to appear in court or submit a document.
- Ignoring it can lead to penalties.
9. Affidavit
- An affidavit is a written statement made under oath.
- It is used as evidence in legal matters and must be truthful.
10. Alimony
- Alimony is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after separation or divorce.
- It may be one-time or monthly.
11. Bail
- Bail is the temporary release of an arrested person while the case continues.
- The person must follow conditions and appear in court when required.
12. Will
- A will is a legal document that states how a person’s property should be distributed after their death.
- It prevents family disputes and ensures clarity.
13. Jurisdiction
- Jurisdiction means the legal authority of a court to hear a case.
- A case must be filed in a court that has the right to handle that type of issue and location.
14. Mediation
- Mediation is a peaceful dispute-resolution method where a neutral third person helps both sides reach an agreement without going to court.
15. Settlement
- A settlement is an agreement between parties to resolve a dispute without continuing litigation.
- It saves time, money, and stress.
16. Statute of Limitations
- This refers to the time limit within which a case must be filed.
- If you delay too long, the court may refuse to hear the case.
17. Power of Attorney (POA)
- A POA is a legal document that allows one person to act on behalf of another—for banking, signing papers, or managing property.