GLOSSARY

AGREED JUDGMENT--A written agreement by the parties settling a dispute, subject to the Judge’s approval.

AFFIDAVIT--A written statement made upon affirmation that the statement is true under the penalty of perjury or under oath before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths.

BODY ATTACHMENT--An order of arrest issued by a judge when a party does not appear at a rule to show cause hearing.

CONTEMPT--An act or a failure to act that tends to obstruct or interfere with the operation of the court.

CONTINUANCE--Postponement of a hearing or trial to a later date.

COUNTERCLAIM--A written demand filed by a defendant against a plaintiff for money or possession of property.

DAMAGES--A sum awarded by the court as compensation for loss or injury.

DEFAULT JUDGMENT--Decision for the plaintiff when the defendant fails to appear in court.

DEFENDANT--The person being sued.

DISCOVERY--A request for disclosure of information held by the adverse party.

DISMISSAL--The removal of a claim from the court prior to a trial.

EVICTION--The legal process of removing someone from real property.

GARNISHEE DEFENDANT--A third party served with a written notice to apply property to a judgment.

GARNISHMENT--A request that property (cash or other items of value) controlled by a third person be used to pay judgment.

IMMEDIATE POSSESSION--A procedure for expedited return of real property or personal property.