Legal Terms Starting with B
Bail
Money or property deposited with a court to secure a defendant's release from custody and guarantee their appearance at trial.
Criminal LawBailiff
A court officer responsible for maintaining order, assisting the judge, and managing defendants in custody during proceedings.
Court AdministrationBankruptcy
A legal proceeding for individuals or businesses unable to pay debts, seeking relief through discharge or reorganization.
Bankruptcy LawBar Association
A professional organization of licensed attorneys that regulates the legal profession and provides resources to members.
Professional EthicsBattery
The intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person without consent, causing harm or offense.
Criminal LawBench Trial
A trial where the judge serves as both fact-finder and legal arbiter, without a jury present.
Civil ProcedureBeneficiary
A person designated to receive assets, benefits, or property from a trust, will, insurance policy, or other legal instrument.
Estate PlanningBequest
A gift of personal property through a will, distinguishing it from a devise which refers to real property.
Estate PlanningBeyond Reasonable Doubt
The standard of proof required in criminal cases, indicating moral certainty rather than absolute certainty of guilt.
Criminal LawBilateral Contract
An agreement where both parties exchange mutual promises, each serving as consideration for the other's promise.
Contract LawBill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms to citizens.
Constitutional LawBinding Arbitration
A dispute resolution process where parties agree to accept an arbitrator's decision as final and enforceable.
Dispute ResolutionBreach of Contract
The failure to perform obligations under a contract without legal excuse, giving rise to remedies for the non-breaching party.
Contract LawBurden of Proof
The obligation of a party to prove their allegations or claims through sufficient evidence to prevail in a case.
Evidence LawBurglary
The unlawful entry into a building or structure with intent to commit a crime, typically theft or another felony.
Criminal LawBylaws
Internal rules and regulations governing the operation and management of a corporation or organization.
Business LawBad Faith
Dishonest dealing, intentional misconduct, or failure to fulfill obligations with intent to deceive or harm another party.
Contract LawBona Fide
Latin term meaning "in good faith" - genuine, authentic, and without fraud or deceit in transactions or representations.
General Legal TermsBreach of Duty
The failure to exercise the standard of care owed to another person, a key element in negligence claims.
Tort LawBusiness Judgment Rule
A legal principle protecting corporate directors from liability for business decisions made in good faith and with due care.
Corporate Law