Legal glossary

Plain-language starting points for terms you may hear in a consultation.

Find a term

A legal professional entitled to practise within the applicable professional framework.

A dispute-resolution process before an arbitral tribunal, subject to an applicable agreement and legal framework.

A process concerning release from custody subject to the applicable law and conditions; it is not a decision that an accused person is innocent.

A number or identifier used by a court or authority to identify a matter.

The 16-character alphanumeric case reference used by the eCourts service.

A list of matters scheduled before a court; dates and listings should be verified.

A review of parties and relationships to assess whether a professional can act in a matter.

An agreement whose legal effect depends on its terms, facts and applicable law.

A direction or decision issued by a court. Its scope should be read in the complete document.

The agreed professional relationship and scope under which an advocate acts.

First Information Report: a police record connected to information about an alleged cognisable offence.

A scheduled court proceeding; purpose and next steps depend on the matter.

A court direction concerning an action or restraint, subject to its terms.

The authority of a court or forum to consider a matter.

A formal communication concerning a legal claim, position or proposed action.

Legal rules concerning time limits for certain proceedings; assessment depends on the facts and law.

A facilitated process in which parties seek to resolve a dispute by agreement.

A formal application to a court or authority requesting consideration or relief.

An agreed arrangement for professional services over a defined scope or period.

Terms agreed to resolve a dispute; the wording and effect require careful review.

General definitions for general information. The legal meaning and effect depend on the context and applicable law.