A Court where criminal proceedings are commenced before justices of the peace who examine the evidence/statements and either deal with the case themselves or commit to the Crown Court for trial or sentence. Also has jurisdiction in a range of civil matters (see also Stipendiary Magistrate)

A temporary order for financial provision made within divorce proceedings until such time as the proceedings are finalised (i.e. by issue of the Decree Absolute)

Maladministration is administration that leads to injustice because of such factors as excessive delay, bias or arbitrary decision-making.

(see Registrar) Judicial officer of the High Court in the Royal Courts of Justice who normally deals with preliminary matters before trial

Senior judge of the Court of Appeal (Civil Division)

(see Originating Application) Proceedings commenced by way of originating application

A process for resolving disagreements in which an impartial third party (the mediator) helps people in dispute to find a mutually acceptable resolution. If mediation fails court proceedings can be initiated or re-activated

Sum of money claimed by the owner of property against someone not legally entitled to be in possession. Calculated from the date the notice to quit expires until the date possession is given up

Someone below 18 years of age and unable to sue or be sued without representation, other than for wages. A minor sues by a next friend and defends by a guardian

Reasons submitted on behalf of a guilty party in order to excuse or partly excuse the offence committed in an attempt to minimise the sentence

A claim for money only in the county court. The claim can be for a fixed on unspecified amount. See also unspecified amount of money

An online Service that allows claimants to start legal proceedings which relate to money. Defendants can use the service to respond to a claim against them also

A loan of money advanced to purchase property. The transfer of the property is withheld as security for payment

The party that advances the loan

The party obtaining the loan

An application by one party to the High Court for an order in their favour

The path that defended claims over £15000 are allocated to