Legal Terms Starting with V

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Vacate

To set aside or annul a court order, judgment, or proceeding, rendering it void.

Court Procedure

Vandalism

Intentional destruction or defacement of property belonging to another person.

Criminal Law

Variance

Permission to use property in a way that deviates from zoning regulations, or discrepancy between pleadings and proof.

Real Estate

Vehicular Homicide

Causing another's death through negligent or unlawful operation of a motor vehicle.

Criminal Law

Vendor

A seller of goods or services in a commercial transaction or property sale.

Commercial Law

Venue

The geographic location where a case is tried, determined by rules considering parties' residence and events.

Court Procedure

Verdict

The formal decision or finding reached by a jury on matters submitted during trial.

Trial Practice

Vested Interest

A fixed right to present or future property or benefits that cannot be taken away.

Property Law

Vicarious Liability

Legal responsibility imposed on one person for the wrongful acts of another based on their relationship.

Tort Law

Void

Having no legal force or effect from the beginning, as if it never existed.

General Legal Terms

Voidable

Valid until canceled or voided by a party with the right to do so, such as contracts with minors.

Contract Law

Voir Dire

The process of questioning potential jurors to determine their qualifications and impartiality.

Trial Practice

Voluntary Manslaughter

Intentional killing committed in heat of passion or under adequate provocation, reducing murder charges.

Criminal Law

Voting Rights

Constitutional and statutory protections ensuring citizens' ability to participate in elections without discrimination.

Constitutional Law

Verification

A sworn statement confirming the truth and accuracy of facts stated in a legal document.

Court Procedure

Vesting

The process by which rights become fixed and unconditional, often used in retirement and stock option contexts.

Employment Law

Vexatious Litigation

Legal action brought to harass or annoy rather than seek legitimate resolution, potentially subject to sanctions.

Civil Litigation

Victim's Rights

Legal protections and privileges afforded to crime victims in criminal justice proceedings.

Criminal Law

Visitation Rights

Court-ordered privileges allowing non-custodial parents or relatives to spend time with a child.

Family Law

Voluntary Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy proceedings initiated by the debtor seeking relief from overwhelming financial obligations.

Bankruptcy Law