The central institution in both civil and criminal legal systems that adjudicates legal disputes and carries out the administration of justice in accordance with the rule of law. It usually consists of a group of judges or other judicial officers, collectively called the bench. It is usually established and dissolved by legislation or an equivalent constituting instrument. Its practical authority is known as its jurisdiction (from the Latin iurisdictio, meaning “to declare law”).
An act or proceeding in which the truth of facts is determined by a judge or jury; a court case.
A lawsuit or prosecution brought by the government against a person or corporation as defendant to determine whether they have violated a crime.
Testimony, documents or other physical objects presented in a court hearing for the purpose of proving or disproving matters relevant to a case. A court case in which the plaintiff demonstrates that they are entitled to compensation from a defendant for an injury, loss or damage suffered as a result of the defendant’s actions.
The body of law that forbids certain actions or conduct and provides for punishment of those who engage in such activities.
The Supreme Judicial Court serves as the final arbiter of the law in the state. It hears appeals from lower courts and may re-examine cases where the decisions of lower courts conflict with or contradict each other. It also has the power to review a conviction or pardon or sentence, and it acts as a check on the executive and legislative branches of government.