Legal Glossary

Latin: “Let him not go out.” A writ prohibiting a particular person from leaving the jurisdiction of the court.

A failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would act under similar circumstances.

Negligence as a matter of law.

Negligence of a degree so great that it shows a reckless disregard for the safety or rights of others.

An adult who, in the absence of an appointed guardian, sues on behalf of an infant or incompetent person.

Latin: “Nothing.” A thing of no value.

Opinion of the grand jury that evidence is insufficient to warrant the finding of an indictment. Compare, TRUE BILL.

A method of resolving disputes without considering the issue of fault.

Latin: “I am unwilling to prosecute.” A formal dismissal of a criminal indictment. Such, though, does not bar a subsequent indictment for the same offense.

Latin: “I will not contest it.” A plea whereby the defendant neither admits nor denies guilt, but instead accepts a judgment of guilt by choosing not to contest the allegations underlying the charge. Mississippi does not allow nolo contendere pleas in felony cases.

A small and trivial sum awarded for a technical injury due to a violation of some legal right.

Latin: “Not of sound mind.”

Latin: “It does not follow.” An unwarranted or illogical conclusion.

Failure to join a party needed for a just adjudication.

Withholding adjudication of guilt of an eligible defendant pursuant the statutory requirements.

Failing to perform a legal duty.

A plaintiff’s voluntary dismissal of a lawsuit prior to an adjudication on the merits.

A bonded public officer who may administer oaths and affirmations, receive the proof or acknowledgment of all instruments of writing relating to commerce and navigation, and such other writings as are commonly proved or acknowledged before notaries.

Notification to a party or witness as required by law.

A written notice by the landlord demanding the tenant to quit the premises.

Latin: “Nothing collected.” A form of return by a sheriff or constable upon an execution when a judgment debtor has no seizable property within the jurisdiction.

Latin: “Now for then.” To supply omissions in the record of what had previously been done, but for reasons of mistake or neglect had not been entered.