Legal Terms and Definitions

Glossary of Legal Terms

Foster care A form of substitute care, usually in a home licensed by a public agency, for children whose welfare requires removal from their homes Termination of parental rights A judicial proceeding freeing a child from all custody and control by parents, so the child can be adopted by others. Declaratory judgment One which declares the rights of the parties or expresses the opinion of the court on a question of law, without ordering anything to be done. Liability A legal responsibility, obligation, or debt. Appellate jurisdiction The appellate court has the right to review and revise the lower court decision. presentence report An investigation conducted at the request of the court after a person has been found guilty of a crime. The purpose is to provide the court with extensive background information to determine the appropriate sentence. On felonies, usually done by the Department of Corrections, Division of Adult Probation & Parole (AP & P). Bailiff A court officer whose duties are to keep order in the courtroom and to have custody of the jury. Domicile That place where a person has his true and permanent home. A person may have several residences, but only one domicile

IAre you currently seeking legal information regarding South Carolina laws? If so, contact one of our South Carolina attorneys today!

	Did You Know?
	Mediation has many qualities that make it appealing. In most cases, mediation is: conciliatory fair quick inexpensive voluntary confidential Mediation also has several key benefits. It promotes: greater participant control customized agreements workable decisions mutually satisfactory outcomes improved relationships high rates of compliance decisions that hold up over time