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.

Naturalize

The process of becoming a citizen in a country where a person was not born a citizen

Neglect

When a person acts with less care or caution than a regular person would have in the same situation

Net Income

Income after taxes have been taken out

Nominal damages

A very small amount of money awarded when a court finds in favor of one party. The court finds that no real harm was done.

Non-wage garnishment

Taking a defendant's money that is in the hands of other parties, like a bank

Noncustodial parent

The parent that does not have the majority of parenting time.

Notary public

A person who certifies that another person signed a document. A notary is not an attorney.

Notice of motion

A document that gives notice to the court and the other party. It explains someone has filed a motion, and where and when that motion will be argued before a judge.

Negligence

When someone is not careful in protecting the rights and property of others

Negligent manslaughter

The killing of a person through negligence

Nonresident Violator Compact

A multi-state agreement. It assures non-resident motorists who receive citations for minor traffic violations receive the same treatment as resident motorists. It provides due-process protection for non-residents. It helps states hold violators responsible.

Non-petitioned

Cases that court personnel decide not to petition