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Glossary

electable offence
A criminal charge for which the defendant can choose to be tried by a Judge or by a Judge and jury. This is for offences that are punishable by more than three months in prison.
enduring power of attorney
When someone authorises (an)other person(s) to act on their behalf to manage their affairs. An enduring power of attorney may relate to the person's property, to their personal care and welfare, or to both.
estate
The money and property of a deceased person.
evidence
Information provided by a party to establish facts to support their case.
executor
A person appointed by a person in their will to administer their estate after their death.
expert evidence
Evidence given by a skilled witness on matters relating to their profession, for example, by a child psychologist.

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Family Court
Where you get help to sort out family problems. Family Court Judges are approachable and are appointed to work in this court because of their understanding and experience of family matters.
filing
Lodging an application or other document at a court. This can be done in person or by mail.
final order
The decision of a court that ends the proceedings.
fine
An amount of money a person has to pay. A Judge can order a person to pay a fine if they admit the charge against them or if the charge has been proven. This is called a court fine. A Judge can fine someone for drink-driving, disorderly behaviour, or theft. The fine can be the whole sentence or just part of it.
fixture
The time set down for a court hearing.
forfeiture
Taking property away from someone. A Judge can order a person to give up something if they break the law.

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guardian
A person who has duties, rights, and responsibilities in relation to a child's upbringing. The mother of a child is always the natural guardian of a child. The court can appoint additional guardians.

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hearing
A meeting for a Judge to hear a case and decide what to do about it. It usually means that only a Judge is there. When there is a jury as well, it's called a trial.
hierarchy
Organised at different levels, with the most powerful at the top.
High Court
The court that deals with major civil cases, the most serious criminal cases, and some appeals, including appeals from the Family Court.

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