Legal Dictionary - Glossary of Legal Terms

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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.