Glossary of Family Law Terms

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

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Pendente Lite: Latin for "while litigation is going on."

Petition: A formal request that the court take some action; a complaint.

Plaintiff: The party bringing the case against another.

Property Division: The distribution of property accumulated by spouses as a result of their joint efforts during the marriage. Sometimes referred to as a "property settlement."

Pro Se: On one’s own behalf; not using an attorney.