Magistrate Judges: Judicial officers who
assist U.S. district judges in getting cases ready for
trial, who may decide some criminal and civil trials
when both parties agree to have the case heard by a
magistrate judge instead of a judge.
Malpractice: Improper or negligent behavior by
a professional, such as a doctor or a lawyer. The
failure of a professional to follow the accepted
standards of practice of his or her profession.
Mediation: A method of alternative dispute
resolution in which a neutral third party helps resolve
a dispute. The mediator does not have the power to
impose a decision on the parties. If a satisfactory
resolution cannot be reached, the parties can pursue a
lawsuit.
Minor: A person who does not have the legal
rights of an adult. A minor is usually defined as
someone who has not yet reached the age of majority. In
most states, a person reaches majority and acquires all
of the rights and responsibilities of an adult when he
or she turns 18.
Misdemeanor: Crime that is punishable by less
than one year in jail, such as minor theft and simple
assault that does not result in substantial bodily
injury.
Mistrial: An invalid trial, caused by
fundamental error. When a mistrial is declared, the
trial must start again from the selection of the jury.
Motion for a New Trial: Request in which a
losing party asserts that a trial was unfair due to
legal errors that prejudiced its case.
Motion for directed Verdict: A request made by
the defendant in a civil case. Asserts that the
plaintiff has raised no genuine issue to be tried and
asks the judge to rule in favor of the defense.
Typically made after the plaintiff is done presenting
his or her case.
Motion for Summary Judgment: A request made by
the defendant in a civil case. Asserts that the
plaintiff has raised no genuine issue to be tried and
asks the judge to rule in favor of the defense.
Typically made before the trial.
Motion to dismiss: In a civil case, a request
to a judge by the defendant, asserting that even if all
the allegations are true, the plaintiff is not entitled
to any legal relief and thus the case should be
dismissed.
Motion to Suppress Evidence: A request to a
judge to keep out evidence at a trial or hearing often
made when a party believes the evidence was unlawfully
obtained.
Motion: A request asking a judge to issue a
ruling or order on a legal matter.
