20 Legal Terms Every American Should Know

From subpoenas to statutes of limitations, these are the most important legal terms you're likely to encounter — explained in plain English.

1. 1
   Statute of Limitations

   A law setting the maximum time period within which a lawsuit can be filed after an injury or breach occurs.
2. 2
   Habeas Corpus

   A legal action challenging unlawful or indefinite detention and demanding release or a hearing.
3. 3
   Subpoena

   A court order requiring someone to testify in court or produce documents or evidence.
4. 4
   Affidavit

   A written statement sworn under oath before an authorized official, used as evidence in court.
5. 5
   Deposition

   A formal out-of-court questioning of a witness or party under oath, with a transcript recorded.
6. 6
   Negligence

   Failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm to another person.
7. 7
   Hearsay

   An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of what it asserts.
8. 8
   Contempt of Court

   Willful disobedience or disrespect toward a court or judge that disrupts justice.
9. 9
   Voir Dire

   The questioning process used to select impartial jurors for a trial.
10. 10
    Discovery

    The legal process where parties exchange information and evidence before trial.
11. 11
    Mens Rea

    The guilty mind or criminal intent required to establish most crimes.
12. 12
    Plea Bargain

    A negotiated agreement where a defendant pleads guilty in exchange for reduced charges or sentencing.
13. 13
    Class Action

    A lawsuit where one person or group sues on behalf of many people with similar claims.
14. 14
    Defamation

    A false statement that damages someone's reputation and causes real harm.
15. 15
    Tort

    A wrongful act or breach of duty (other than contract) that causes harm and creates civil liability.
16. 16
    Pro Bono

    Legal work performed without charge for the public good or those who cannot afford it.
17. 17
    Force Majeure

    An unforeseeable, uncontrollable event that excuses contract performance.
18. 18
    Indemnification

    A promise to compensate someone for losses, damages, or legal costs they suffer.
19. 19
    Punitive Damages

    Extra money awarded to punish wrongful conduct and deter future misconduct.
20. 20
    Probate

    The court process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's estate.

This guide is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.