Personal Injury, Work Comp, & Social Security Disability Legal Terms

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O

obiter dictum. Remark by a judge in a legal opinion that is irrelevant to the decision and does not establish precedent . Often used in the plural, dicta.

objection. In a trial, a reason stated on the record by an attorney that a matter or proceeding is illegal. Making objections in open court is important for purposes of making a record for appeal .

opinion. Written statement by a judge or court of the decision in a case which describes the law applied to the facts of the case and the reasons for the decision.

order. Written direction or command made by a court or judge, and not included in a judgment. See also decree.

ordinance. Commonly, a regulation passed by a municipal legislative body.

out-of-court settlement. An agreement reached between a plaintiff and a defendant to resolve a lawsuit privately and without a judge's authorization or approval.