Legal Glossary

Minnesota legal terms and court documents explained in plain language — no law degree required.

Legal documents are full of terms that can be confusing. This glossary defines common legal words and phrases in plain language, so you can understand what you’re reading in court papers, statutes, and legal guides.

If you come across a term that isn’t listed here, check our guides for plain-language explanations of how Minnesota law works in specific situations.

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Court Process: Complaint – Answer – Counterclaim – Motion – Discovery – Interrogatories – Deposition – Stipulation – Evidence – Hearsay – Cross-Examination – Bench Trial – Mistrial – Judgment – Appeal – Brief – Subpoena – Contempt of Court – Continuance – Due Process – Precedent

Criminal Law: Felony – Gross Misdemeanor – Misdemeanor – Arraignment – Bail – Plea – Conviction – Acquittal – Expungement – Miranda Rights – Implied Consent – Burden of Proof – Preponderance of Evidence – Affirmative Defense – Delinquency

Family Law: Dissolution – Petition – Respondent – Order for Protection – Restraining Order

Money & Property: Damages – Default Judgment – Lien – Homestead – Garnishment – Small Claims – Conciliation Court – Statute of Limitations – Eviction

People & Roles: Plaintiff – Defendant – Respondent – Party – Pro Se – Fiduciary – Pro Bono

Documents & Procedures: Affidavit – Court Order – Summons – Writ – Notarize – Service of Process – Ex Parte