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thelordofdarkreunion · 3 years

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Things the Scoundrels Are No Longer Allowed to Do Part III

Based on “Skippy’s List,” this is a continuation of Things the Scoundrels are No Longer Allowed to Do. I hope you like it.

Part I

https://thelordofdarkreunion.tumblr.com/post/637424500291600384/a-list-of-things-the-scoundrels-are-no-longer

Part II

https://thelordofdarkreunion.tumblr.com/post/660088048783097856/things-the-scoundrels-are-no-longer-allowed-to-do

371. The “dibs” system is not a recognized method of promotion in the military.

372. High recoil guns and roller skates are not an accepted method of transportation.

373. You can’t find the true names of demons in the phone book.

374. If the top floor is too well defended, you can’t just blow off the next to top floor.

375. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to elope with anyone for any reason.

376. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to give anyone preemptive last rites.

377. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to name droids IC-UP.

378. The male and female members of the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to hold competitions against each other outside the Scoundrels fleet. The last time that happened, the governor’s palace on Fildenfal got destroyed.

379. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to fish with flamethrowers.

380. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to call radio talk shows in the middle of missions.

381. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to re-create any scenes from Grease.

382. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.

383. No amount of genetic engineering can turn pigs kosher.

384. There is not a map written in invisible ink on the back of the Declaration of Independence.

385. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to run for political office. Especially with the slogans “vote for me or I’ll kill you all,” or “because I’m just that awesome.”

386. When asked who their greatest role model is, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to answer Agent Smith from The Matrix.

387. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to shoot any god in the face just to brag that they did so.

388. Stain glass windows are not standard features on tanks. Stop giving the Imperium ideas.

389. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use guns to communicate in Morse code.

390. If it is cheaper to buy a new starship than reload your weapon, then there is a problem.

391. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to announce their arrival with eight straight hours of orbital bombardment.

392. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to put small restaurants on the bridges of their starships.

393. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to rent ad space on the outsides of their starships.

394. The Dirty Harry “Are you feeling lucky, punk?” speech does not really work with fully automatic pistols.

395. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to play High Speed Dirt while making emergency orbital re-entry.

396. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to convince shapeshifters to change into any celebrities or murderous dictators.

397. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to scan alien ambassadors for “cooties.”

398. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use government resources to pay their restaurant bills.

399. Most places frown upon using ammunition as currency.

400. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to mount bayonets on flamethrowers.

401. You can’t thwart Reaper cyber attacks by installing Norton antivirus.

402. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to sing along with the elevator music.

403. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use the Enterprise’s Holodeck to recreate scenes from Caligula.

404. Starting a flame war on the internet is bad. Starting a flame war not on the internet is much, much worse.

405. If it takes more than five minutes for the debris to stop falling, you need a smaller gun.

406. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to name newly discovered planets after themselves.

407. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to build Gatling Gatling guns.

408. Klingons do not have French accents, and it is wrong to state otherwise.

409. Darth Nihilus does not “just need a hug.”

410. Dr. Suess rhymes do not have any part in exorcisms.

411. Unitards are not part of any of our governments’ dress uniforms.

412. Using heavy artillery in assassinations is just being lazy.

413. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to buy onesie pajamas to “raise crew morale.”

414. You can’t just shoot a hole in the surface of Mars.

415. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to surf in active war zones.

416. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to put discotheques, bowling alleys, or movie theaters in their starships.

417. “Getting uppity” is not a capital offense.

418. Deer season is restricted to rifles and bows, and, thus, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to hunt deer using Greco-Roman wrestling.

419. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to start telethons.

420. Imperial Star Destroyers do not have help desks.

421. The Covenant does not have an IT department.

422. Using ventriloquism to trick your enemies into fighting each other is fine. Using ventriloquism to trick your superior officers in fighting is not.

423. You can’t suplex Tyranid monstrosities.

424. Summary Execution Man is not an appropriate name for a superhero.

425. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to ask the Ultramarines why their chapter’s primary color isn’t ultramarine.

426. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to recreate scenes from Blues Brothers.

427. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to tell AI’s that only humans can divide by zero.

428. The Scoundrels do not need to know the melting point of Borg.

429. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to post-date letters of marque.

430. The city of Boise, Idaho, does not need a dark, brooding vigilante of the night.

431. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to run up their enemies’ cable bills by ordering PPV movies on their TVs.

432. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to improvise, “wing”, or fabricate alien funeral rites.

433. The Scoundrels will keep all eldritch artifacts of unspeakable power out of the reach of small children.

434. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to ask tech-priests if they are AC or DC.

435. “Medium rare” is not a phaser setting.

436. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to hold AT-AT drag races.

437. Any gun that’s wattage is best described in scientific notation is not allowed.

438. Off duty Space Marines wear robes, not tank tops and speedos.

439. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to enter or exit buildings while playing Carolus Rex.

440. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to brew any alcohol that can double as jet fuel.

441. Vrul do not appreciate the Socratic method.

442. Snipers don’t appreciate their spotters yelling “Boom! Headshot!”

443. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to do anything they saw Nicholas Cage do.

444. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to call suicide prevention hotlines on behalf of the Death Korps of Krieg.

445. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to make Liechtenstein a world superpower.

446. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to make any plan that hinges on their opponent having a peanut allergy.

447. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to hack into the national address systems of any government that could be considered communist and broadcast Economics 101 lessons over them.

448. Apex Predator Pilots will not respond to jury summons.

449. They do not make civilian models of mini guns, and the Scoundrels are discouraged to visit any country that does.

450. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to regift cursed artifacts.

451. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to convince super soldiers to get pompadour, Afro, or macaroni hairstyles.

452. You can’t plea bargain mass regicide, even if the rulers in question were incredibly corrupt.

453. When asked who the greatest human being of all time was, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to answer Millard Fillmore. (Who’s Millard Fillmore?)

454. There will be no more product placement in the mission evaluation videos.

455. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to commission statues of themselves, especially if said statue is meant to be mounted on the outside of their starships.

456. Mission preparation does not include a mani/pedi.

457. It is best if Master Chief does not go through the metal detector in customs.

458. “Call in the Deathwatch and wait for the screams to stop” is not automatically Plan A.

459. Despite its tremendous cost to benefit ratio, bubble wrap is not a staple in black op missions.

460. If challenged to a competition by an individual of a species whose average height is below 5’5”, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to choose basketball.

461. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to question ONI agents or Ordo Malleus operatives on why a town of 4,000 people with zero strategic value warranted a 100 megaton nuke.

462. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to genetically engineer walruses to ballroom dance.

463. In retrospect, it was a bad idea to show Imperial Inquisitors Monty Python skits.

464. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to engage in any “research” involving more than a gallon of super balls.

465. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to lease out Halo Rings, even if they include the option to buy.

466. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to be in possession of any carbonated beverages while in possession of Mentos brand mints. The last time that happened, they somehow managed to cause an earthquake near Indonesia. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to claim responsibility for natural disasters unless they were actually responsible for them.

467. The Scoundrels will refrain from encouraging tech-priests to develop emotional attachments to heavy ordinance.

468. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to form political parties, especially based on themselves.

469. Anesthetic is not “only for sissies.”

470. If the person who posted a bounty asks for proof, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to bring back the bounty’s reanimated corpse.

471. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to abuse homonyms.

472. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to purchase modern art with government funds.

473. “The Chaos Gods are bad, so, therefore we should reforge and summon the Nightbringer to destroy them” is a really, really bad idea.

474. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to start a cult that worships Richard Sharpe, Jason Bourne, or John Wick.

475. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to abuse union bylaws to exploit holes in security.

476. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to expose individuals to Reaper technology, Sith holocrons and Chaos artifacts to “see which form of corruption will win.”

477. Militaristic, highly honorable species, such as the Drev or Klingon, do not appreciate you fighting dirty in their trials by combat.

478. If asked to choose a religion, the Scoundrels cannot make their choice solely by the greatest number of sexual positions it allows.

479. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to rate their favorite alien species by which ones have reproductive systems closest to humanity.

480. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to dual wield .50 caliber machine guns.

481. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to say “I am Alpharius.” Ever.

482. There is no such thing as a right to a strip search.

483. While it is customary to initiate a duel by striking with a gauntlet, it is also customary to do so at subsonic speeds.

484. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use heavy artillery for industrial purposes.

485. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use wombats for medicinal purposes.

486. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to spend the entirety of their bonus pay on flamethrowers.

487. The following aren’t acceptable seconds in duels: Space Marine Chapter Masters (even if you are on a first name basis with them), intelligent demon swords, the primarch of Palaven, Prussia.

488. The Scoundrels will keep the amount of sexual innuendo to a minimum during autopsy reports.

489. If you are given a wish by an immortal, you are to leave out the words “you incompetent prick.”

490. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to organize skeet shoots with office furniture.

491. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to genetically engineer any animal from the continent of Australia.

492. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to start wars over what the best polearm is.

493. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to give shout-outs in ransom notes.

494. You can’t learn a language by only learning the profanities of said language. Even if the Russians in your crews disagree.

495. If a party is black tie, that doesn’t mean just painted on the armor.

496. Every day is not Mardi Gras.

497. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to sneak into the Sanctum Imperialis or the Celzex throne room disguised as a documentary crew. Especially on behalf of Trazyn the Infinite.

498. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to threaten sentient monsters by telling Cajun restaurants their location.

499. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to abuse the “kids eat free” rule at any restaurant.

500. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to compare Starfleet uniforms to the Wiggles.

501. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to dump napalm in fire sprinkler tanks.

502. Support gunships are for air support, not beer runs.

503. While acting as sniper spotters, the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to play I Spy.

504. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to call enemy corporation’s tech support for help with breaking into their computer network.

505. “Humor me” is not an acceptable targeting parameter on robotic sentry guns.

506. None of the Scoundrels need 10 tons of duct tape for any reason whatsoever.

507. It is not a race to strip mine a planet.

508. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to buy any major league sports team.

509. Asking a taxidermist to stuff a deer head is OK. Asking the same taxidermist to stuff a full-size rancor is not.

510. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use necron “My Will Be Done” programs on Reapers.

511. Any argument with your significant other will be done verbally and in person, not across the battlefield using heavy artillery as Morse code.

512. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to imitate Captain Jack Sparrow in any way, shape, or form.

513. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to use Siri as their ship’s central computer.

514. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to play the theme from Jaws on missions to aquatic planets.

515. There are only so many flavors of beef jerky, and the Scoundrels are no longer allowed to create new ones.

516. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to create their own frozen pizza lines.

517. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to go trick-or-treating, especially dressed as themselves.

518. Peter Quill is not allowed to quote Parks and Recreation.

519. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to communicate exclusively in a computer programming language.

520. The answer to a Flood invasion is not to ask junior personnel if they’re “bad enough dudes” to contain it.

521. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to ask weapons corporations to sponsor children’s charities.

522. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to conduct interviews on new personnel. Especially not if they specifically ask for them.

523. Ghillie suits are not formal wear.

524. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to summarily execute anyone who causes a M.R.V.N. to display a sad face.

525. “Kill ‘em all and let God sort it out” is not a valid battle plan.

526. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to enter diplomatic conferences via the Old Time Rock and Roll slide. Especially not in their underwear.

527. “Excessive flatulence” is not a crime punishable by death.

528. “Oops, I missed” does not excuse missing a shot by that much.

529. Even if you claim you hit exactly what you were aiming at.

530. The Scoundrels are no longer allowed to antagonize anyone who can kill them with their minds.

There we have it. I hope you enjoyed, and if you have any suggestions to add to the list, feel free to tell me!

#magnificent scoundrels #skippy's list #funny #list of things you are no longer allowed to do #halo #master chief #star wars #mass effect #warhammer 40k #star trek

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fractallogic · 2 years

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Guess who got excused from jury duty because their juror number was not between 1 and 101!!

LOVE NOT HAVING TO WAKE UP EARLY IN THE MORNING!! especially after last night’s trash sleep performance

AAAANNNNNDDDDDD guess who also suddenly also has a bonus day to get some work done~ and who suddenly feels less stressed about the two things (TWO) that I need to get done this week~

I was like… momentarily bummed that I wasn’t going in (it’s like going to the dentist and getting a half day at school or whatever, but with more civic responsibility), in part because I was like ah well now I can’t get a little dressed up and feel Important and Cool with my other laptop bag and not my backpack

And then maybe three hours later I was like oh friend oh buddy oh my dude you can still actually do all that and just go to campus. Make yourself a PB&J for lunch, put on some non-schlumpy jeans and a nicer shirt than usual, be glad that you don’t have to dress for jury duty, put your stuff in your other bag, go to campus. Same effect! More comfortable. In jury duty, you don’t get a snack drawer and you ought to keep your shoes on at all times, even if they’re like, nicer shoes that aren’t comfy for sitting on your feet and you really want to sit in a screen gremlin ball instead of like a person. In your office, well, DIFFERENT STORY

But we already knew my brain is NOT firing on all cylinders today, so whatever

Also I can make a decent breakfast in the morning instead of half-awakely having a protein shake and some tea. Like PANCAKES. or EGGS AND POTATOES.

My mood is basically summed up by our favorite sidekick, especially because I have already stayed up late

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hirealaw · 3 years

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Glossary of Legal Terms

Acquittal

A jury verdict that a criminal defendant is not guilty, or the finding of a judge that the evidence is insufficient to support a conviction.

Active judge

A judge in the full-time service of the court. Compare to senior judge.

Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AO)

The federal agency responsible for collecting court statistics, administering the federal courts' budget, and performing many other administrative and programmatic functions, under the direction and supervision of the Judicial Conference of the United States.

Admissible

A term used to describe evidence that may be considered by a jury or judge in civil and criminal cases.

Adversary proceeding

A lawsuit arising in or related to a bankruptcy case that begins by filing a complaint with the court, that is, a "trial" that takes place within the context of a bankruptcy case.

Affidavit

A written or printed statement made under oath.

Affirmed

In the practice of the court of appeals, it means that the court of appeals has concluded that the lower court decision is correct and will stand as rendered by the lower court.

Alternate juror

A juror selected in the same manner as a regular juror who hears all the evidence but does not help decide the case unless called on to replace a regular juror.

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)

A procedure for settling a dispute outside the courtroom. Most forms of ADR are not binding, and involve referral of the case to a neutral party such as an arbitrator or mediator.

Amicus curiae

Latin for "friend of the court." It is advice formally offered to the court in a brief filed by an entity interested in, but not a party to, the case.

Answer

The formal written statement by a defendant in a civil case that responds to a complaint, articulating the grounds for defense.

Appeal

A request made after a trial by a party that has lost on one or more issues that a higher court review the decision to determine if it was correct. To make such a request is "to appeal" or "to take an appeal." One who appeals is called the "appellant;" the other party is the "appellee."

Appellant

The party who appeals a district court's decision, usually seeking reversal of that decision.

Appellate

About appeals; an appellate court has the power to review the judgment of a lower court (trial court) or tribunal. For example, the U.S. circuit courts of appeals review the decisions of the U.S. district courts.

Appellee

The party who opposes an appellant's appeal, and who seeks to persuade the appeals court to affirm the district court's decision.

Arraignment

A proceeding in which a criminal defendant is brought into court, told of the charges in an indictment or information, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty.

Article III judge

A federal judge who is appointed for life, during "good behavior," under Article III of the Constitution. Article III judges are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

Assets

Property of all kinds, including real and personal, tangible and intangible.

Assume

An agreement to continue performing duties under a contract or lease.

Automatic stay

An injunction that automatically stops lawsuits, foreclosures, garnishments, and most collection activities against the debtor the moment a bankruptcy petition is filed.

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Bail

The release, prior to trial, of a person accused of a crime, under specified conditions designed to assure that person's appearance in court when required. Also can refer to the amount of bond money posted as a financial condition of pretrial release.

Bankruptcy

A legal procedure for dealing with debt problems of individuals and businesses; specifically, a case filed under one of the chapters of title 11 of the United States Code (the Bankruptcy Code).

Bankruptcy administrator

An officer of the Judiciary serving in the judicial districts of Alabama and North Carolina who, like the United States trustee, is responsible for supervising the administration of bankruptcy cases, estates, and trustees; monitoring plans and disclosure statements; monitoring creditors' committees; monitoring fee applications; and performing other statutory duties.

Bankruptcy code

The informal name for title 11 of the United States Code (11 U.S.C. §§ 101-1330), the federal bankruptcy law.

Bankruptcy court

The bankruptcy judges in regular active service in each district; a unit of the district court.

Bankruptcy estate

All interests of the debtor in property at the time of the bankruptcy filing. The estate technically becomes the temporary legal owner of all of the debtor's property.

Bankruptcy judge

A judicial officer of the United States district court who is the court official with decision-making power over federal bankruptcy cases.

Bankruptcy petition

A formal request for the protection of the federal bankruptcy laws. (There is an official form for bankruptcy petitions.)

Bankruptcy trustee

A private individual or corporation appointed in all Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases to represent the interests of the bankruptcy estate and the debtor's creditors.

Bench trial

A trial without a jury, in which the judge serves as the fact-finder.

Brief

A written statement submitted in a trial or appellate proceeding that explains one side's legal and factual arguments.

Burden of proof

The duty to prove disputed facts. In civil cases, a plaintiff generally has the burden of proving his or her case. In criminal cases, the government has the burden of proving the defendant's guilt. (See standard of proof.)

Business bankruptcy

A bankruptcy case in which the debtor is a business or an individual involved in business and the debts are for business purposes.

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Capital offense

A crime punishable by death.

Case file

A complete collection of every document filed in court in a case.

Case law

The law as established in previous court decisions. A synonym for legal precedent. Akin to common law, which springs from tradition and judicial decisions.

Caseload

The number of cases handled by a judge or a court.

Cause of action

A legal claim.

Chambers

The offices of a judge and his or her staff.

Chapter 11

A reorganization bankruptcy, usually involving a corporation or partnership. A Chapter 11 debtor usually proposes a plan of reorganization to keep its business alive and pay creditors over time. Individuals or people in business can also seek relief in Chapter 11.

Chapter 12

The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code providing for adjustment of debts of a "family farmer" or "family fisherman," as the terms are defined in the Bankruptcy Code.

Chapter 13

The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code providing for the adjustment of debts of an individual with regular income, often referred to as a "wage-earner" plan. Chapter 13 allows a debtor to keep property and use his or her disposable income to pay debts over time, usually three to five years.

Chapter 13 trustee

A person appointed to administer a Chapter 13 case. A Chapter 13 trustee's responsibilities are similar to those of a Chapter 7 trustee; however, a Chapter 13 trustee has the additional responsibilities of overseeing the debtor's plan, receiving payments from debtors, and disbursing plan payments to creditors.

Chapter 15

The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code dealing with cases of cross-border insolvency.

Chapter 7

The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code providing for "liquidation," that is, the sale of a debtor's nonexempt property and the distribution of the proceeds to creditors. In order to be eligible for Chapter 7, the debtor must satisfy a "means test." The court will evaluate the debtor's income and expenses to determine if the debtor may proceed under Chapter 7.

Chapter 7 trustee

A person appointed in a Chapter 7 case to represent the interests of the bankruptcy estate and the creditors. The trustee's responsibilities include reviewing the debtor's petition and schedules, liquidating the property of the estate, and making distributions to creditors. The trustee may also bring actions against creditors or the debtor to recover property of the bankruptcy estate.

Chapter 9

The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code providing for reorganization of municipalities (which includes cities and towns, as well as villages, counties, taxing districts, municipal utilities, and school districts).

Chief judge

The judge who has primary responsibility for the administration of a court; chief judges are determined by seniority

Claim

A creditor's assertion of a right to payment from a debtor or the debtor's property.

Class action

A lawsuit in which one or more members of a large group, or class, of individuals or other entities sue on behalf of the entire class. The district court must find that the claims of the class members contain questions of law or fact in common before the lawsuit can proceed as a class action.

Clerk of court

The court officer who oversees administrative functions, especially managing the flow of cases through the court. The clerk's office is often called a court's central nervous system.

Collateral

Property that is promised as security for the satisfaction of a debt.

Common law

The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States, which relies on the articulation of legal principles in a historical succession of judicial decisions. Common law principles can be changed by legislation.

Community service

A special condition the court imposes that requires an individual to work – without pay – for a civic or nonprofit organization.

Complaint

A written statement that begins a civil lawsuit, in which the plaintiff details the claims against the defendant.

Concurrent sentence

Prison terms for two or more offenses to be served at the same time, rather than one after the other. Example: Two five-year sentences and one three-year sentence, if served concurrently, result in a maximum of five years behind bars.

Confirmation

Approval of a plan of reorganization by a bankruptcy judge.

Consecutive sentence

Prison terms for two or more offenses to be served one after the other. Example: Two five-year sentences and one three-year sentence, if served consecutively, result in a maximum of 13 years behind bars.

Consumer bankruptcy

A bankruptcy case filed to reduce or eliminate debts that are primarily consumer debts.

Consumer debts

Debts incurred for personal, as opposed to business, needs.

Contingent claim

A claim that may be owed by the debtor under certain circumstances, e.g., where the debtor is a cosigner on another person's loan and that person fails to pay.

Contract

An agreement between two or more people that creates an obligation to do or not to do a particular thing.

Conviction

A judgment of guilt against a criminal defendant.

Counsel

Legal advice; a term also used to refer to the lawyers in a case.

Count

An allegation in an indictment or information, charging a defendant with a crime. An indictment or information may contain allegations that the defendant committed more than one crime. Each allegation is referred to as a count.

Court

Government entity authorized to resolve legal disputes. Judges sometimes use "court" to refer to themselves in the third person, as in "the court has read the briefs."

Court reporter

A person who makes a word-for-word record of what is said in court, generally by using a stenographic machine, shorthand or audio recording, and then produces a transcript of the proceedings upon request.

Credit counseling

Generally refers to two events in individual bankruptcy cases: (1) the "individual or group briefing" from a nonprofit budget and credit counseling agency that individual debtors must attend prior to filing under any chapter of the Bankruptcy Code; and (2) the "instructional course in personal financial management" in chapters 7 and 13 that an individual debtor must complete before a discharge is entered. There are exceptions to both requirements for certain categories of debtors, exigent circumstances, or if the U.S. trustee or bankruptcy administrator have determined that there are insufficient approved credit counseling agencies available to provide the necessary counseling.

Creditor

A person to whom or business to which the debtor owes money or that claims to be owed money by the debtor.

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Damages

Money that a defendant pays a plaintiff in a civil case if the plaintiff has won. Damages may be compensatory (for loss or injury) or punitive (to punish and deter future misconduct).

De facto

Latin, meaning "in fact" or "actually." Something that exists in fact but not as a matter of law.

De jure

Latin, meaning "in law." Something that exists by operation of law.

De novo

Latin, meaning "anew." A trial de novo is a completely new trial. Appellate review de novo implies no deference to the trial judge's ruling.

Debtor

A person who has filed a petition for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

Debtor's plan

A debtor's detailed description of how the debtor proposes to pay creditors' claims over a fixed period of time.

Declaratory judgment

A judge's statement about someone's rights. For example, a plaintiff may seek a declaratory judgment that a particular statute, as written, violates some constitutional right.

Default judgment

A judgment awarding a plaintiff the relief sought in the complaint because the defendant has failed to appear in court or otherwise respond to the complaint.

Defendant

An individual (or business) against whom a lawsuit is filed.

Defendant

In a civil case, the person or organization against whom the plaintiff brings suit; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.

Deposition

An oral statement made before an officer authorized by law to administer oaths. Such statements are often taken to examine potential witnesses, to obtain discovery, or to be used later in trial. See discovery.

Discharge

A release of a debtor from personal liability for certain dischargeable debts. Notable exceptions to dischargeability are taxes and student loans. A discharge releases a debtor from personal liability for certain debts known as dischargeable debts and prevents the creditors owed those debts from taking any action against the debtor or the debtor's property to collect the debts. The discharge also prohibits creditors from communicating with the debtor regarding the debt, including through telephone calls, letters, and personal contact.

Dischargeable debt

A debt for which the Bankruptcy Code allows the debtor's personal liability to be eliminated.

Disclosure statement

A written document prepared by the chapter 11 debtor or other plan proponent that is designed to provide "adequate information" to creditors to enable them to evaluate the chapter 11 plan of reorganization.

Discovery

Procedures used to obtain disclosure of evidence before trial.

Dismissal with prejudice

Court action that prevents an identical lawsuit from being filed later.

Dismissal without prejudice

Court action that allows the later filing.

Disposable income

Income not reasonably necessary for the maintenance or support of the debtor or dependents. If the debtor operates a business, disposable income is defined as those amounts over and above what is necessary for the payment of ordinary operating expenses.

Docket

A log containing the complete history of each case in the form of brief chronological entries summarizing the court proceedings.

Due process

In criminal law, the constitutional guarantee that a defendant will receive a fair and impartial trial. In civil law, the legal rights of someone who confronts an adverse action threatening liberty or property.

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En banc

French, meaning "on the bench." All judges of an appellate court sitting together to hear a case, as opposed to the routine disposition by panels of three judges. In the Ninth Circuit, an en banc panel consists of 11 randomly selected judges.

Equitable

Pertaining to civil suits in "equity" rather than in "law." In English legal history, the courts of "law" could order the payment of damages and could afford no other remedy (see damages). A separate court of "equity" could order someone to do something or to cease to do something (e.g., injunction). In American jurisprudence, the federal courts have both legal and equitable power, but the distinction is still an important one. For example, a trial by jury is normally available in "law" cases but not in "equity" cases.

Equity

The value of a debtor's interest in property that remains after liens and other creditors' interests are considered. (Example: If a house valued at $60,000 is subject to a $30,000 mortgage, there is $30,000 of equity.)

Evidence

Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case in favor of one side or the other.

Ex parte

A proceeding brought before a court by one party only, without notice to or challenge by the other side.

Exclusionary rule

Doctrine that says evidence obtained in violation of a criminal defendant's constitutional or statutory rights is not admissible at trial.

Exculpatory evidence

Evidence indicating that a defendant did not commit the crime.

Executory contracts

Contracts or leases under which both parties to the agreement have duties remaining to be performed. If a contract or lease is executory, a debtor may assume it (keep the contract) or reject it (terminate the contract).

Exempt assets

Property that a debtor is allowed to retain, free from the claims of creditors who do not have liens on the property.

Exemptions, exempt property

Certain property owned by an individual debtor that the Bankruptcy Code or applicable state law permits the debtor to keep from unsecured creditors. For example, in some states the debtor may be able to exempt all or a portion of the equity in the debtor's primary residence (homestead exemption), or some or all "tools of the trade" used by the debtor to make a living (i.e., auto tools for an auto mechanic or dental tools for a dentist). The availability and amount of property the debtor may exempt depends on the state the debtor lives in.

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Face sheet filing

A bankruptcy case filed either without schedules or with incomplete schedules listing few creditors and debts. (Face sheet filings are often made for the purpose of delaying an eviction or foreclosure

Family farmer

An individual, individual and spouse, corporation, or partnership engaged in a farming operation that meets certain debt limits and other statutory criteria for filing a petition under Chapter 12.

Federal public defender

An attorney employed by the federal courts on a full-time basis to provide legal defense to defendants who are unable to afford counsel. The judiciary administers the federal defender program pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.

Federal public defender organization

As provided for in the Criminal Justice Act, an organization established within a federal judicial circuit to represent criminal defendants who cannot afford an adequate defense. Each organization is supervised by a federal public defender appointed by the court of appeals for the circuit.

Federal question jurisdiction

Jurisdiction given to federal courts in cases involving the interpretation and application of the U.S. Constitution, acts of Congress, and treaties.

Felony

A serious crime, usually punishable by at least one year in prison.

File

To place a paper in the official custody of the clerk of court to enter into the files or records of a case.

Fraudulent transfer

A transfer of a debtor's property made with intent to defraud or for which the debtor receives less than the transferred property's value.

Fresh start

The characterization of a debtor's status after bankruptcy, i.e., free of most debts. (Giving debtors a fresh start is one purpose of the Bankruptcy Code.)

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Grand jury

A body of 16-23 citizens who listen to evidence of criminal allegations, which is presented by the prosecutors, and determine whether there is probable cause to believe an individual committed an offense. See also indictment and U.S. attorney.

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Habeas corpus

Latin, meaning "you have the body." A writ of habeas corpus generally is a judicial order forcing law enforcement authorities to produce a prisoner they are holding, and to justify the prisoner's continued confinement. Federal judges receive petitions for a writ of habeas corpus from state prison inmates who say their state prosecutions violated federally protected rights in some way.

Hearsay

Evidence presented by a witness who did not see or hear the incident in question but heard about it from someone else. With some exceptions, hearsay generally is not admissible as evidence at trial

Home confinement

A special condition the court imposes that requires an individual to remain at home except for certain approved activities such as work and medical appointments. Home confinement may include the use of electronic monitoring equipment – a transmitter attached to the wrist or the ankle – to help ensure that the person stays at home as required.

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Impeachment

1. The process of calling a witness's testimony into doubt. For example, if the attorney can show that the witness may have fabricated portions of his testimony, the witness is said to be "impeached;" 2. The constitutional process whereby the House of Representatives may "impeach" (accuse of misconduct) high officers of the federal government, who are then tried by the Senate.

In camera

Latin, meaning in a judge's chambers. Often means outside the presence of a jury and the public. In private.

In forma pauperis

"In the manner of a pauper." Permission given by the court to a person to file a case without payment of the required court fees because the person cannot pay them.

Inculpatory evidence

Evidence indicating that a defendant did commit the crime.

Indictment

The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies. See also information.

Information

A formal accusation by a government attorney that the defendant committed a misdemeanor. See also indictment.

Injunction

A court order preventing one or more named parties from taking some action. A preliminary injunction often is issued to allow fact-finding, so a judge can determine whether a permanent injunction is justified.

Insider (of corporate debtor)

A director, officer, or person in control of the debtor; a partnership in which the debtor is a general partner; a general partner of the debtor; or a relative of a general partner, director, officer, or person in control of the debtor.

Insider (of individual debtor)

Any relative of the debtor or of a general partner of the debtor; partnership inwhich the debtor is a general partner; general partner of the debtor; or corporation of which the debtor is a director, officer, or person in control.

Interrogatories

A form of discovery consisting of written questions to be answered in writing and under oath.

Issue

1. The disputed point between parties in a lawsuit; 2. To send out officially, as in a court issuing an order.

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Joint administration

A court-approved mechanism under which two or more cases can be administered together. (Assuming no conflicts of interest, these separate businesses or individuals can pool their resources, hire the same professionals, etc.)

Joint petition

One bankruptcy petition filed by a husband and wife together.

Judge

An official of the Judicial branch with authority to decide lawsuits brought before courts. Used generically, the term judge may also refer to all judicial officers, including Supreme Court justices.

Judgeship

The position of judge. By statute, Congress authorizes the number of judgeships for each district and appellate court.

Judgment

The official decision of a court finally resolving the dispute between the parties to the lawsuit.

Judicial Conference of the United States

The policy-making entity for the federal court system. A 27-judge body whose presiding officer is the Chief Justice of the United States.

Jurisdiction

The legal authority of a court to hear and decide a certain type of case. It also is used as a synonym for venue, meaning the geographic area over which the court has territorial jurisdiction to decide cases.

Jurisprudence

The study of law and the structure of the legal system

Jury

The group of persons selected to hear the evidence in a trial and render a verdict on matters of fact. See also grand jury.

Jury instructions

A judge's directions to the jury before it begins deliberations regarding the factual questions it must answer and the legal rules that it must apply.

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Lawsuit

A legal action started by a plaintiff against a defendant based on a complaint that the defendant failed to perform a legal duty which resulted in harm to the plaintiff.

Lien

A charge on specific property that is designed to secure payment of a debt or performance of an obligation. A debtor may still be responsible for a lien after a discharge.

Liquidated claim

A creditor's claim for a fixed amount of money.

Liquidation

The sale of a debtor's property with the proceeds to be used for the benefit of creditors.

Litigation

A case, controversy, or lawsuit. Participants (plaintiffs and defendants) in lawsuits are called litigants.

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Magistrate judge

A judicial officer of a district court who conducts initial proceedings in criminal cases, decides criminal misdemeanor cases, conducts many pretrial civil and criminal matters on behalf of district judges, and decides civil cases with the consent of the parties.

Means test

Section 707(b)(2) of the Bankruptcy Code applies a "means test" to determine whether an individual debtor's chapter 7 filing is presumed to be an abuse of the Bankruptcy Code requiring dismissal or conversion of the case (generally to chapter 13). Abuse is presumed if the debtor's aggregate current monthly income (see definition above) over 5 years, net of certain statutorily allowed expenses is more than (i) $10,000, or (ii) 25% of the debtor's nonpriority unsecured debt, as long as that amount is at least $6,000. The debtor may rebut a presumption of abuse only by a showing of special circumstances that justify additional expenses or adjustments of current monthly income.

Mental health treatment

Special condition the court imposes to require an individual to undergo evaluation and treatment for a mental disorder. Treatment may include psychiatric, psychological, and sex offense-specific evaluations, inpatient or outpatient counseling, and medication.

Misdemeanor

An offense punishable by one year of imprisonment or less. See also felony.

Mistrial

An invalid trial, caused by fundamental error. When a mistrial is declared, the trial must start again with the selection of a new jury.

Moot

Not subject to a court ruling because the controversy has not actually arisen, or has ended

Motion

A request by a litigant to a judge for a decision on an issue relating to the case.

Motion in Limine

A pretrial motion requesting the court to prohibit the other side from presenting, or even referring to, evidence on matters said to be so highly prejudicial that no steps taken by the judge can prevent the jury from being unduly influenced.

Motion to lift the automatic stay

A request by a creditor to allow the creditor to take action against the debtor or the debtor's property that would otherwise be prohibited by the automatic stay.

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No-asset case

A Chapter 7 case in which there are no assets available to satisfy any portion of the creditors' unsecured claims.

Nolo contendere

No contest. A plea of nolo contendere has the same effect as a plea of guilty, as far as the criminal sentence is concerned, but may not be considered as an admission of guilt for any other purpose.

Nondischargeable debt

A debt that cannot be eliminated in bankruptcy. Examples include a home mortgage, debts for alimony or child support, certain taxes, debts for most government funded or guaranteed educational loans or benefit overpayments, debts arising from death or personal injury caused by driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, and debts for restitution or a criminal fine included in a sentence on the debtor's conviction of a crime. Some debts, such as debts for money or property obtained by false pretenses and debts for fraud or defalcation while acting in a fiduciary capacity may be declared nondischargeable only if a creditor timely files and prevails in a nondischargeability action.

Nonexempt assets

Property of a debtor that can be liquidated to satisfy claims of creditors.

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Objection to dischargeability

A trustee's or creditor's objection to the debtor being released from personal liability for certain dischargeable debts. Common reasons include allegations that the debt to be discharged was incurred by false pretenses or that debt arose because of the debtor's fraud while acting as a fiduciary.

Objection to exemptions

A trustee's or creditor's objection to the debtor's attempt to claim certain property as exempt from liquidation by the trustee to creditors.

Opinion

A judge's written explanation of the decision of the court. Because a case may be heard by three or more judges in the court of appeals, the opinion in appellate decisions can take several forms. If all the judges completely agree on the result, one judge will write the opinion for all. If all the judges do not agree, the formal decision will be based upon the view of the majority, and one member of the majority will write the opinion. The judges who did not agree with the majority may write separately in dissenting or concurring opinions to present their views. A dissenting opinion disagrees with the majority opinion because of the reasoning and/or the principles of law the majority used to decide the case. A concurring opinion agrees with the decision of the majority opinion, but offers further comment or clarification or even an entirely different reason for reaching the same result. Only the majority opinion can serve as binding precedent in future cases. See also precedent.

Oral argument

An opportunity for lawyers to summarize their position before the court and also to answer the judges' questions.

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Panel

1. In appellate cases, a group of judges (usually three) assigned to decide the case; 2. In the jury selection process, the group of potential jurors; 3. The list of attorneys who are both available and qualified to serve as court-appointed counsel for criminal defendants who cannot afford their own counsel.

Parole

The release of a prison inmate – granted by the U.S. Parole Commission – after the inmate has completed part of his or her sentence in a federal prison. When the parolee is released to the community, he or she is placed under the supervision of a U.S. probation officer.

The Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 abolished parole in favor of a determinate sentencing system in which the sentence is set by sentencing guidelines. Now, without the option of parole, the term of imprisonment the court imposes is the actual time the person spends in prison.

Party in interest

A party who has standing to be heard by the court in a matter to be decided in the bankruptcy case. The debtor, U.S. trustee or bankruptcy administrator, case trustee, and creditors are parties in interest for most matters.

Per curiam

Latin, meaning "for the court." In appellate courts, often refers to an unsigned opinion.

Peremptory challenge

A district court may grant each side in a civil or criminal trial the right to exclude a certain number of prospective jurors without cause or giving a reason.

Petit jury (or trial jury)

A group of citizens who hear the evidence presented by both sides at trial and determine the facts in dispute. Federal criminal juries consist of 12 persons. Federal civil juries consist of at least six persons.

Petition

The document that initiates the filing of a bankruptcy proceeding, setting forth basic information regarding the debtor, including name, address, chapter under which the case is filed, and estimated amount of assets and liabilities.

Petition preparer

A business not authorized to practice law that prepares bankruptcy petitions.

Petty offense

A federal misdemeanor punishable by six months or less in prison.

Plaintiff

A person or business that files a formal complaint with the court.

Plan

A debtor's detailed description of how the debtor proposes to pay creditors' claims over a fixed period of time.

Plea

In a criminal case, the defendant's statement pleading "guilty" or "not guilty" in answer to the charges. See also nolo contendere.

Pleadings

Written statements filed with the court that describe a party's legal or factual assertions about the case.

Postpetition transfer

A transfer of the debtor's property made after the commencement of the case.

Prebankruptcy planning

The arrangement (or rearrangement) of a debtor's property to allow the debtor to take maximum advantage of exemptions. (Prebankruptcy planning typically includes converting nonexempt assets into exempt assets.)

Precedent

A court decision in an earlier case with facts and legal issues similar to a dispute currently before a court. Judges will generally "follow precedent" - meaning that they use the principles established in earlier cases to decide new cases that have similar facts and raise similar legal issues. A judge will disregard precedent if a party can show that the earlier case was wrongly decided, or that it differed in some significant way from the current case.

Preferential debt payment

A debt payment made to a creditor in the 90-day period before a debtor files bankruptcy (or within one year if the creditor was an insider) that gives the creditor more than the creditor would receive in the debtor's chapter 7 case.

Presentence report

A report prepared by a court's probation officer, after a person has been convicted of an offense, summarizing for the court the background information needed to determine the appropriate sentence.

Pretrial conference

A meeting of the judge and lawyers to plan the trial, to discuss which matters should be presented to the jury, to review proposed evidence and witnesses, and to set a trial schedule. Typically, the judge and the parties also discuss the possibility of settlement of the case.

Pretrial services

A function of the federal courts that takes place at the very start of the criminal justice process – after a person has been arrested and charged with a federal crime and before he or she goes to trial. Pretrial services officers focus on investigating the backgrounds of these persons to help the court determine whether to release or detain them while they await trial. The decision is based on whether these individuals are likely to flee or pose a threat to the community. If the court orders release, a pretrial services officer supervises the person in the community until he or she returns to court.

Priority

The Bankruptcy Code's statutory ranking of unsecured claims that determines the order in which unsecured claims will be paid if there is not enough money to pay all unsecured claims in full.

Priority claim

An unsecured claim that is entitled to be paid ahead of other unsecured claims that are not entitled to priority status. Priority refers to the order in which these unsecured claims are to be paid.

Pro per

A slang expression sometimes used to refer to a pro se litigant. It is a corruption of the Latin phrase "in propria persona."

Pro se

Representing oneself. Serving as one's own lawyer.

Pro tem

Temporary.

Probation

Sentencing option in the federal courts. With probation, instead of sending an individual to prison, the court releases the person to the community and orders him or her to complete a period of supervision monitored by a U.S. probation officer and to abide by certain conditions.

Probation officer

Officers of the probation office of a court. Probation officer duties include conducting presentence investigations, preparing presentence reports on convicted defendants, and supervising released defendants.

Procedure

The rules for conducting a lawsuit; there are rules of civil procedure, criminal procedure, evidence, bankruptcy, and appellate procedure.

Proof of claim

A written statement describing the reason a debtor owes a creditor money, which typically sets forth the amount of money owed. (There is an official form for this purpose.)

Property of the estate

All legal or equitable interests of the debtor in property as of the commencement of the case.

Prosecute

To charge someone with a crime. A prosecutor tries a criminal case on behalf of the government

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Reaffirmation agreement

An agreement by a debtor to continue paying a dischargeable debt after the bankruptcy, usually for the purpose of keeping collateral or mortgaged property that would otherwise be subject to repossession.

Record

A written account of the proceedings in a case, including all pleadings, evidence, and exhibits submitted in the course of the case.

Redemption

A procedure in a Chapter 7 case whereby a debtor removes a secured creditor's lien on collateral by paying the creditor the value of the property. The debtor may then retain the property.

Remand

Send back.

Reverse

The act of a court setting aside the decision of a lower court. A reversal is often accompanied by a remand to the lower court for further proceedings.

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Sanction

A penalty or other type of enforcement used to bring about compliance with the law or with rules and regulations.

Schedules

Lists submitted by the debtor along with the petition (or shortly thereafter) showing the debtor's assets, liabilities, and other financial information. (There are official forms a debtor must use.)

Secured creditor

A secured creditor is an individual or business that holds a claim against the debtor that is secured by a lien on property of the estate. The property subject to the lien is the secured creditor's collateral.

Secured debt

Debt backed by a mortgage, pledge of collateral, or other lien; debt for which the creditor has the right to pursue specific pledged property upon default. Examples include home mortgages, auto loans and tax liens.

Senior judge

A federal judge who, after attaining the requisite age and length of judicial experience, takes senior status, thus creating a vacancy among a court's active judges. A senior judge retains the judicial office and may cut back his or her workload by as much as 75 percent, but many opt to keep a larger caseload.

Sentence

The punishment ordered by a court for a defendant convicted of a crime.

Sentencing guidelines

A set of rules and principles established by the United States Sentencing Commission that trial judges use to determine the sentence for a convicted defendant.

Sequester

To separate. Sometimes juries are sequestered from outside influences during their deliberations.

Service of process

The delivery of writs or summonses to the appropriate party.

Settlement

Parties to a lawsuit resolve their dispute without having a trial. Settlements often involve the payment of compensation by one party in at least partial satisfaction of the other party's claims, but usually do not include the admission of fault.

Small business case

A special type of chapter 11 case in which there is no creditors' committee (or the creditors' committee is deemed inactive by the court) and in which the debtor is subject to more oversight by the U.S. trustee than other chapter 11 debtors. The Bankruptcy Code contains certain provisions designed to reduce the time a small business debtor is in bankruptcy.

Standard of proof

Degree of proof required. In criminal cases, prosecutors must prove a defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." The majority of civil lawsuits require proof "by a preponderance of the evidence" (50 percent plus), but in some the standard is higher and requires "clear and convincing" proof.

Statement of financial affairs

A series of questions the debtor must answer in writing concerning sources of income, transfers of property, lawsuits by creditors, etc. (There is an official form a debtor must use.)

Statement of intention

A declaration made by a chapter 7 debtor concerning plans for dealing with consumer debts that are secured by property of the estate.

Statute

A law passed by a legislature.

Statute of limitations

The time within which a lawsuit must be filed or a criminal prosecution begun. The deadline can vary, depending on the type of civil case or the crime charged.

Sua sponte

Latin, meaning "of its own will." Often refers to a court taking an action in a case without being asked to do so by either side.

Subordination

The act or process by which a person's rights or claims are ranked below those of others.

Subpoena

A command, issued under a court's authority, to a witness to appear and give testimony.

Subpoena duces tecum

A command to a witness to appear and produce documents.

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Temporary restraining order

Akin to a preliminary injunction, it is a judge's short-term order forbidding certain actions until a full hearing can be conducted. Often referred to as a TRO.

Testimony

Evidence presented orally by witnesses during trials or before grand juries.

Toll

See statute of limitations.

Tort

A civil, not criminal, wrong. A negligent or intentional injury against a person or property, with the exception of breach of contract.

Transcript

A written, word-for-word record of what was said, either in a proceeding such as a trial, or during some other formal conversation, such as a hearing or oral deposition

Transfer

Any mode or means by which a debtor disposes of or parts with his/her property.

Trustee

The representative of the bankruptcy estate who exercises statutory powers, principally for the benefit of the unsecured creditors, under the general supervision of the court and the direct supervision of the U.S. trustee or bankruptcy administrator. The trustee is a private individual or corporation appointed in all chapter 7, chapter 12, and chapter 13 cases and some chapter 11 cases. The trustee's responsibilities include reviewing the debtor's petition and schedules and bringing actions against creditors or the debtor to recover property of the bankruptcy estate. In chapter 7, the trustee liquidates property of the estate, and makes distributions to creditors. Trustees in chapter 12 and 13 have similar duties to a chapter 7 trustee and the additional responsibilities of overseeing the debtor's plan, receiving payments from debtors, and disbursing plan payments to creditors.

Typing service

A business not authorized to practice law that prepares bankruptcy petitions.

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U.S. attorney

A lawyer appointed by the President in each judicial district to prosecute and defend cases for the federal government. The U.S. Attorney employs a staff of Assistant U.S. Attorneys who appear as the government's attorneys in individual cases.

U.S. trustee

An officer of the U.S. Department of Justice responsible for supervising the administration of bankruptcy cases, estates, and trustees; monitoring plans and disclosure statements; monitoring creditors' committees; monitoring fee applications; and performing other statutory duties.

Undersecured claim

A debt secured by property that is worth less than the amount of the debt.

Undue hardship

The most widely used test for evaluating undue hardship in the dischargeability of a student loan includes three conditions: (1) the debtor cannot maintain – based on current income and expenses – a minimal standard of living if forced to repay the loans; (2) there are indications that the state of affairs is likely to persist for a significant portion of the repayment period; and (3) the debtor made good faith efforts to repay the loans.

Unlawful detainer action

A lawsuit brought by a landlord against a tenant to evict the tenant from rental property – usually for nonpayment of rent.

Unliquidated claim

A claim for which a specific value has not been determined.

Unscheduled debt

A debt that should have been listed by the debtor in the schedules filed with the court but was not. (Depending on the circumstances, an unscheduled debt may or may not be discharged.)

Unsecured claim

A claim or debt for which a creditor holds no special assurance of payment, such as a mortgage or lien; a debt for which credit was extended based solely upon the creditor's assessment of the debtor's future ability to pay.

Uphold

The appellate court agrees with the lower court decision and allows it to stand. See affirmed.

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Venue

The geographic area in which a court has jurisdiction. A change of venue is a change or transfer of a case from one judicial district to another.

Verdict

The decision of a trial jury or a judge that determines the guilt or innocence of a criminal defendant, or that determines the final outcome of a civil case.

Voir dire

Jury selection process of questioning prospective jurors, to ascertain their qualifications and determine any basis for challenge.

Voluntary transfer

A transfer of a debtor's property with the debtor's consent.

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Wage garnishment

A nonbankruptcy legal proceeding whereby a plaintiff or creditor seeks to subject to his or her claim the future wages of a debtor. In other words, the creditor seeks to have part of the debtor's future wages paid to the creditor for a debt owed to the creditor.

Warrant

Court authorization, most often for law enforcement officers, to conduct a search or make an arrest.

Witness

A person called upon by either side in a lawsuit to give testimony before the court or jury.

Writ

A written court order directing a person to take, or refrain from taking, a certain act.

Writ of certiorari

An order issued by the U.S. Supreme Court directing the lower court to transmit records for a case which it will hear on appeal.

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#Glossary #Lexicon #LegalTerms #USCourts

Source: US Courts

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cuc0mber · 4 years

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It’s been a long time

I’m struggling a little bit with computer stuff and getting my photos off my phone and organized, so I don’t expect to have photos up for a few days but I do want to try to take a moment and reflect on the past year in the meantime.

January: I built Chevy a cat tree on NYE. After finally graduating college at the end of December, I started working full time as a lead teacher with my own classroom. Ivy, Taylor, Connor, Miracle, Morgan, whats-his-face-noodle-boy with the terrified parents. I felt empowered and excited. I loved being in control of my classroom, keeping things clean and organized, and making my own bulletin boards.

February: Keeping on the grind, still waiting for my raise to kick in. Went to see G Jones in Philly and got ADA accommodations for the first time. Having a place to sit was amazing but I felt like I couldn’t fully enjoy the show because I was afraid of getting up and losing my seat. We went to the art museum and saw some really cool art on saturday before the show and then stopped by the basilica on the way home sunday. I got my raise but it was significantly less than I had been led to believe I would be getting so I started looking for jobs. Saw Fun Home the musical and absolutely bawled my whole gay eyes out. Tried PT for the first time. My mom bought a house and moved to Hagerstown.

March: Chevy continued to be the most fascinating creature on the planet. Applied, interviewed for, and was offered a once-in-a-lifetime nanny job. ??? I don’t remember much of march. KonMari-ed the fuck out of my life.

April: Quit my job!!!!! I was sad to leave my kids but proud of myself for standing my ground and holding out for the pay I deserve. Traveled truly by myself for the first time and went to Woodlake, CA to visit Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks. It was absolutely incredible.

May: Started working with Henry for the first time. Discovered that nannying is much lonelier than working in a center but the freedom and closer emotional bond is absolutely worth it. Oliver met Maggie. Jackson was born. 1 year anniversary of being in the new house.

June: Bought a new laptop and made a new commitment to returning to PC gaming. We all met Maggie for the first time.I had to go to jury duty. Family vacation to Charleston, SC that was so miserable I vowed never to participate in an entire family vacation again. Organized my entire CD collection. Quit instagram and twitter and never looked back.

July: Met Jackson for the first time. Got glasses. Tried playing trombone again but didn’t stick with it ultimately because of embarrassment. ???? it was hot as fuck. First garage rave.

August: Archie got their driver’s license. Oliver, archie, and maggie surprised me with crabs for my birthday and it was very sweet. Went camping at new germany and had an incredible and sweet time. Hung out with maggie 1-1 for the first time. Went to the Museum of Industry with everyone. More garage rave.

September: Visited Kylie for the first time in more than a year, the longest we’ve been apart since we were old enough to travel alone. Had an excellent time just hanging out and talking and remembering all the reasons why I love her. Watched the Dark Crystal with her and her BF in preparation for watching the new netflix series. Worked with both babies for the first time and it was fine. Ordered prints of many of my photos and collaged a photo album. Discovered chevy has a tumor and FREAKED OUT.

October: Watched Dark Crystal on netflix with maggie. Went to Fish 101 class at baltimore chef shop. Carved pumpkins with everyone. Took myself for a bike ride on the NCR trail after not biking for many years and discovered I can still do it, and in fact enjoy doing it. Leaned in to cooking and baking again. DOPE halloween party complete with live set from DJ maggie. Started hanging out with Jasmine again.

November: Started working with both babies full time. Chevy caught her first mouse!!! Endured a two hour ordeal at Casual Male XL trying to find a godforsaken suit jacket. Helped maggie shop for her defense outfit. Got to have a significant hand in Thanksgiving preparation and felt really good about it. Saw for myself how Grammy’s health had declined while dealing with a mysterious rash. Went to Sky Zone for Oliver’s bday.

December: Maggie defended her thesis and I got to meet her parents. She had a birthday/defense/winter holiday party where we played jacks box games and smoked cigs and had a lovely time. I learned I still know how to socialize with people I don’t know. Went to the Hampden holiday parade with blair and oliver and maggie and it was very cold. Celebrated Blair’s 21st birthday with a big family celebration and way too much gin. Henry got really sick and it created some messyness that still hasn’t quite worked itself out yet. A nice christmas where I actually thought hard about gifts and had everything wrapped several days in advance. Hijinx festival in Philly that basically went off without a hitch, sealing our bond with maggie and perfectly rounding out the decade.

This year felt like a million years in one but went faster than any other year of my life. It’s hard to remember everything that happened because there wasn’t actually that many significant events. Mostly just gradual personal growth and the moving of time. This was my first year not in school of my whole life and I can’t imagine ever going back. I felt truly single for the first time and spent a lot of time alone. I became secure and confident in my ability to set and enforce my boundaries, especially regarding my emotional time and energy. I saw my friends work hard on their relationships to themselves and each other and everyone reaped the benefits. I’m still really scared of the future but I feel surrounded by love and I’m ready to keep moving forward.

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sarareynolds · 5 years

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Random Asks: Part III

101. From 1-10, how good of a dancer do you consider yourself?

5? I can dance well enough to call it dancing. Admittedly, my scale is a little broken.

102. How much of a patient person are you?

Overall, I am super patient, and then eventually, I hit a day where I find I have none, where I'm am reduced to an over-tired, screaming-and-cying toddler who just needs to be held and told it's ok.

103. Do you know your IQ?

I don't and I'm not going to pull up an internet quiz to prove I'm probably relatively average in that respect.

104. Do you eat meat at all?

Yes.

105. Do you own any clothes from a garage sale or a thrift store?

I am very good at thrifting. I enjoy finding the designer thing for 30 bucks or buying an item of clothing that's really dated but has all the potential to become something new. Thrift shops bring out my creative side.

106. Have you ever bought anything from a flea market?

Same. Same thing as above. I enjoy the treasure hunt of it all.

107. Have you ever quit a job?

Yes.

108. Have you ever gotten a song you dislike stuck in your head?

Yes, I have. Some of the worst songs are earworms.

109. Any movie(s) you can watch over and over and over again and enjoy just as much each time?

Yes, but in general they are not "happy" films. I friggin love Eternal Sunshine.

110. Do you or have you ever worn glasses?

Not in any serious capacity.

111. Have you ever skinny dipped?

I have and I'd do it again.

112. Are your birth parents still together?

No.

113. Have you ever been in the audience for the taping of a TV show?

I have not. Not that I couldn't, I live in New York City I could definitely do that on a whim.

114. Favorite type of cookie?

Chocolate chip. Gooey, none of that crunchy shit. I want it to ooze chocolate and maybe be the size of my face. Lol Guys, I may have a sweets problem.

115. Have you ever been broken up with?

I haven't...

116. How often do you smile when getting your picture taken?

Most of the time.

117. Have you ever accidentally dialed 911?

I have. Wah wah.

118. Oldest memory?

I remember my dad taking me to a fair and we rode the rides, ate mostly deep fried sweets and finished the night with Styx. I do not know how old I was and it's in jumbled flashes but yeah, that's it. Coincidentally, also my first concert.

119. Have you ever been the victim of a nasty prank?

No.

120. How often do you snort when you laugh?

Probably, more than I should.

121. From 1-10, how good of a singer do you consider yourself?

5 again my scale is a tiny bit broken here.

122. Favorite Disney song?

Poor Unfortunate Souls... Actually, my top five are villain songs, I did not realize that until now. Hmm...

123. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I haven't a fucking clue. Hopefully as happy, if not more, than I am now.

124. What is your Myers-Briggs personality type?

I have never taken the time to take the test. You tell me. Lol

125. Have you ever had a fortune cookie fortune come true?

No, because they are vague advice more than predictions.

126. Name one thing you wish people would stop posting on social media.

Those inspirational quote things. I feel like everyone that posts them is being passive aggressive or just dying for someone to go: you're going to be ok! It's annoying and pointless. If something is going on in your life talk to someone or don't. Don't post someone else's "wisdom" like your hard time makes you the wisest in the land.

127. Last musical artist you saw live?

Twenty-One Pilots

128. Credit cards or cash?

Neutral

129. Favorite fandom?

Pokemon

130. What is your astrological sign?

Sagittarius, but this part of divination is a lot more complicated than that, that's just one aspect of your personality. It's a rabbit hole and I admittedly find it more interesting than it actually is.

131. Have you ever been fired from a job?

Yeah.

132. Any hidden talents?

I've answered this before. I dunno, I can do the splits ... Not sure if that counts as hidden.

133. Can you surf?

I can. Granted with all the great white sharks being spotted off Jersey I am not sure I'm brave enough to do it this year.

134. What motivates you to do well in life?

Not being in a shit situation later in life?

135. Your worst physical feature?

My hands? I don't know, sometimes I feel like they look old even if I pamper them.

136. From 1-10, how much are you like your father?

7? More like him than I'm not. Which could be a bad thing.

137. How lucky do you consider yourself?

Typically my answer is: not very, but recently I seem to have all the luck.

138. Name a moment in your life when you were pleasantly surprised.

When Nik kissed me for the first time. I was honestly not expecting it nor did I expect the lightning bolt feeling that came with it.

139. Have you ever been summoned for jury duty?

Nope.

140. What type of shoes do you wear the most?

A pair of Adidas.

141. Favorite summer activity?

Swimming. I would live in the water.

142. Favorite song to sing in the shower?

Um, whatever is in my head when I wake up?

143. Have you ever lived with a roommate you did not get along with?

I have not. I've gotten along with all my roommates. I did have one who hated me but I didn't dislike her.

144. Have you ever lived on a farm?

No. Not my natural habitat.

145. Have you ever kept a diary or a journal?

I still keep a journal. It's just a good way to start the day.

146. TV show or movie you quote/reference the most?

Probably, Fired Up. I realize that should probably be embarrassing for me but, eh, it's super funny even if it's a dumb movie.

147. How often do you get mad at yourself?

More than I should. I'm pretty forgiving and patient with everyone but myself.

148. Have you ever gotten any stitches?

No, but I have been healed for an injury that a no maj would have stitched up.

149. Have you ever been hunting?

No. Hard no.

150. Favorite YouTube channel?

Madeyewlook

#asks #questionairre #questions #random #part iii

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joeys-piano · 5 years

Text

Joey Adulting 101

Learning the writing etiquette for letter envelope-sending because unfortunately, there isn’t an online application I can send it saying: ‘Yo, since I’m a college student, I qualify for an exemption from my jury duty summon.’

Asked my big bro a lot of questions about writing etiquette, he gave me a crash course, he had a small smile on his face because his little Joey was growing up and learning how to adult, and I’m still freaking out inside even though it really isn’t a big deal. It’s a good reminder that I can look up to the adults in my life and know that they have my back for when I have questions or am experiencing something new for the first time.

#Joey Speaks

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randomquestionshq · 6 years

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Question Hodgepodge

Below are 200 random questions to reblog. Have people message you random numbers to your askbox, so you can post your answers to your blog. Remember to repeat the questions in your answers.

1. What is your middle name? 2. Do you have any nicknames that aren’t derived from your actual name? 2. Do you have any allergies? 4. What is the longest your hair has ever been? 5. How well can you write in cursive? 6. Name one item on your bucket list. 7. Have you ever been on a blind date? 8. What is the oldest piece of clothing you still wear and how old is it? 9. How often do you eat out at a fancy restaurant? 10. How grammatically correct are you when you text? 11. Can you drive stick? 12. What foreign country would you most like to visit and why? 13. Nutella or peanut butter? 14. At what age did you have your first kiss? 15. DC or Marvel? 16. Have you ever hosted a wild party? 17. Name/author of the last book you read cover to cover. Do you recommend it? 18. How many of your Facebook friends do you actually hang with? 19. Have you ever donated blood? 20. From 1-10, how much do you like decorating for holidays? 21. Coffee or tea? 22. What is your go-to Starbucks drink? 23. Last show you binge watched? 24. Dogs or cats? 25. Favorite animated Disney character? 26. Have you ever cooked a big family meal by yourself? 27. Favorite winter activity? 28. Have you ever butt dialed anyone? 29. Can you blow a bubble gum bubble? 30. How early in the year do you start celebrating Christmas? 31. What emoji best describes your life right now? 32. Are you fluent in more than one language? 33. What is the longest you’ve ever kept a New Year’s resolution? 34. Have you ever successfully been on a diet? Did you gain any of the weight back? 35. Are any of your grandparents still alive? 36. How good are you at communicating through facial expressions? 37. Have you ever gotten a commercial jingle stuck in your head? 38. Have you ever left a movie theater before the movie was over? 39. Do you consider rapping singing? 40. Does your home have a fireplace? 41. Favorite non-chocolate candy? 42. If you could have only one superpower, what would you want and why? 43. Have you ever locked your keys in your car? 44. Do you listen to any religious music? 45. Do you drink soda? If so, which one is your favorite? 46. What was your ACT score? 47. Rice or quinoa? 48. From 1-10, how good of a driver do you consider yourself? 49. Do you like horror movies? 50. How easily do you cry? 51. Do you have any tattoos? If so, of what and where? 52. You are hanging with your closest friends. What are you most likely doing? 53. Can you handle spicy foods? What is your spice limit? 54. Can you play any musical instruments? If so, which ones? 55. Are you more introverted or extroverted? 56. Last CD you bought? 57. Do you like roller coasters? 58. What day of the week is laundry day for you? 59. Have you ever played spin the bottle? 60. How long have you known your best friend? 61. Can you eat using chopsticks? 62. Do you have any stickers on your laptop computer? If so, what are they of? 63. How often do you say y'all? 64. Favorite flavor of ice cream? 65. How long was your longest relationship? Are you still with that person? 66. Star Trek or Star Wars? 67. How good are you at math? 68. Have you ever acted in a play or a musical? 69. How often do you read/pay attention to your horoscope? 70. What is the shortest your hair has ever been? 71. Have you ever broken any bones? 72. Do you like to go fishing? 73. Do you believe in evolution? 74. Favorite costume you wore for Hallowen? How old were you? 75. Real or fake Christmas trees? 76. How many pillows do you sleep with? 77. Do you live in an apartment or a house? 78. How many of your friends are of the opposite gender? 79. Have you ever had a near-death experience? 80. How long have you been at your current job? 81. What kind of car do you drive (year, brand, model, color)? 82. How flexible are you? 83. Have you ever ended a romantic relationship? 84. Phrase you say the most? 85. Have you ever kissed anyone of the same gender? If so, did you like it? 86. Do you own any homemade clothing? 87. Do you like fast food? 88. Have you ever given anyone CPR? 89. Have you ever learned to do anything from a how-to video on YouTube? 90. Describe your sense of humor. 92. Favorite cereal? 93. Have you ever auditioned for a reality competition show? 94. Have you ever gotten a TV theme song stuck in your head? 95. Do you believe in ghosts? 96. Do you think there is life on other planets? 97. Have you ever given money to a street performer? 98. Your deepest fear? 99. Pancakes or waffles? 100. Are you still friends with anyone from high school? 101. From 1-10, how good of a dancer do you consider yourself? 102. How much of a patient person are you? 103. Do you know your IQ? 104. Do you eat meat at all? 105. Do you own any clothes from a garage sale or a thrift store? 106. Have you ever bought anything from a flea market? 107. Have you ever quit a job? 108. Have you ever gotten a song you dislike stuck in your head? 109. Any movie(s) you can watch over and over and over again and enjoy just as much each time? 110. Do you or have you ever worn glasses? 111. Have you ever skinny dipped? 112. Are your birth parents still together? 113. Have you ever been in the audience for the taping of a TV show? 114. Favorite type of cookie? 115. Have you ever been broken up with? 116. How often do you smile when getting your picture taken? 117. Have you ever accidentally dialed 911? 118. Oldest memory? 119. Have you ever been the victim of a nasty prank? 120. How often do you snort when you laugh? 121. From 1-10, how good of a singer do you consider yourself? 122. Favorite Disney song? 123. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now? 124. What is your Myers-Briggs personality type? 125. Have you ever had a fortune cookie fortune come true? 126. Name one thing you wish people would stop posting on social media. 127. Last musical artist you saw live? 128. Credit cards or cash? 129. Favorite fandom? 130. What is your astrological sign? 131. Have you ever been fired from a job? 132. Any hidden talents? 133. Can you surf? 134. What motivates you to do well in life? 135. Your worst physical feature? 136. From 1-10, how much are you like your father? 137. How lucky do you consider yourself? 138. Name a moment in your life when you were pleasently surprised. 139. Have you ever been summoned for jury duty? 140. What type of shoes do you wear the most? 141. Favorite summer activity? 142. Favorite song to sing in the shower? 143. Have you ever lived with a roommate you did not get along with? 144. Have you ever lived on a farm? 145. Have you ever kept a diary or a journal? 146. TV show or movie you quote/reference the most? 147. How often do you get mad at yourself? 148. Have you ever gotten any stitches? 149. Have you ever been hunting? 150. Favorite YouTube channel? 151. Have you ever had a pet besides a dog or a cat? 152. From 1-10, how well do you work with others? 153. Are you friends with any of your exes? 154. Apple or PC? 155. Do you collect anything? 156. Have you ever seen any Broadway plays or musicals? 157. Any missed opporunites you wish you had taken? 158. Have you ever uttered a spoken hashtag? 159. Do you have a pool at your house? 160. What is the longest you’ve gone without sleep? 161. Last thing that made you laugh? 162. Disney or Nickelodeon? 163. Name one celebrity you wish was still alive. 164. From 1-10, how much are you like your mother? 165. Your best physical feature? 166. Earbud or earmuff headphones? 167. Have you ever wished you were born the opposite gender? 168. Do you have any piercings anywhere besides your ear lobes? 169. How often do you wash your hair? 170. Showers or baths? 171. Have you ever been a bridesmaid or a groomsman? 172. Bottled or tap water? 173. What was your favorite TV show when you were a kid? 174. Any guilty pleasures you’re willing to discuss? 175. Favorite video game? 176. Have you ever gotten a New Year’s kiss exactly at midnight? 177. How many of the United States have you visited? 178. Have you ever given money to a homeless person? 179. Have you ever gotten a surgery? 180. Your least favorite food? 181. From 1-10, how competitive are you? 182. Do you like wearing hats? 183. How much of a jealous peron are you? 184. What was your SAT score? 185. Have you ever voted for a reality competition show? 186. Does anyone in your family currently serve in your country’s military? 187. Snowboarding or skiing? 188. What celebrity would you most want to play you in a movie about your life? 189. Have you ever been a Boy or Girl Scout? 190. Have you ever dyed your hair? 191. From 1-10, how good of a cook do you consider yourself? 192. You have just opened up a web browser. What is the first site you visit? 193. How many things can you do with your weaker hand? 194. Were you involved in any academic clubs in high school? 195. Have you ever played hooky from school? 196. Are you comfortable with watching rated R movies? 197. Do you root for any sports teams? 198. First thing you do when you wake up in the morning? 199. If you could take home any one animal from the zoo, which one would you choose? 200. Tell something about yourself most people don’t know.

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