Know the laws your rights
accomplice
Someone who helps another person (known as the principal) commit a crime. Unlike an accessory, an accomplice is usually present when the crime is committed. An accomplice is guilty of the same offense and usually receives the same sentenc
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administration (of an estate)
The court-supervised distribution of the probate estate of a deceased person. If there is a will that names an executor, that person manages the distribution. If not, the court appoints someone, who is generally known a
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affiant
Someone who signs an affidavit.
See Topic: Go to Court or Mediate
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at will employment
The right of employers to fire employees for any reason, or for no reason at all. It also gives employees the legal right to quit their jobs at any time for any reason. Despite this legal doctine, employers may not fire employees
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bail
The money paid to the court, usually at arraignment or shortly thereafter, to ensure that an arrested person who is released from jail will show up at all required court appearances. The amount of bail is determined by the local bail schedule,
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bequeath
A legal term sometimes used in wills that means “”leave”” — for example, “”I bequeath my garden tools to my brother-in-law, Buster Jenkins.””
See Topic: Wills & Estate Planning
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breach of contract
A legal claim that one party failed to perform as required under a valid agreement with the other party. For example you might say, “”The roofer breached our contract by using substandard supplies when he repaired my roof.””
cash surrender value
The amount of cash available upon voluntary termination of an insurance policy before the insurance benefits become payable.
See Topic: Consumer Rights Wills & Estate Planning Social Security & Retirement
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