All A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

For glossary terms in American Sign Language, you can view these Midwest Center on Law and the Deaf videos.

Habeas corpus

Going before a court or judge to decide whether a person is being unlawfully denied their freedom

Head of household

A tax filing status for someone who is unmarried. They pay at least half of household expenses and live with a dependent.

Hearing

When the parties in a case present their sides of a case to a judge or other officer

Hearsay

A statement made outside the courtroom and used in court to show something is true

Heir

Anyone who receives property from someone who has died

Holdover tenant

A tenant who continues to occupy a residence after the term of the lease. Does not have consent of the landlord.

Hung jury

A jury that is unable to agree on a final decision. This results in a mistrial.

Hear

Listen to and judge a case

Homicide

The killing of one human being by another; includes willful murder and negligent homicide.

Human trafficking

Involves the use of force or coercion to make someone participate in forced labor or a commercial sex act, or luring them into participating if they are under 18.

Hacking

Gaining access to computer software, hardware, or networks without permission.