Admiralty courts hear civil and criminal cases on the high seas, with authority from national constitutions and international agreements. They determine a ship’s country of origin and hear cases involving compensation of seamen, damage to shipping, and loss of property at sea. The UK established the first official admiralty courts in the 15th century, and […]
District court records, including electronic and paper case files, historical records, and archived files, are kept by clerks in the district courts. Public access is available in person or online through services like PACER, with fees for copies and per-page reviews. Court records list parties and trial dates and can be used to research pending […]
The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) is a professional organization for court reporters and closed captioning providers in the US. Members can earn certifications and have access to benefits such as continuing education, employment opportunities, and salary negotiations. The NCRA was founded in the late 1800s and has established standards and tests for its members. […]
Courtroom sketches are visual representations of legal proceedings created by artists using various materials. They are used by mass media agencies as cameras and photographers are prohibited in some jurisdictions. Sketches are completed in minutes and are highly collectible, especially those from high-profile cases. Sketch artists attend proceedings as regular members of the public and […]
Tax courts are specialized courts that hear tax-related cases and settle disputes between citizens and the government. They are present in most countries, with some having separate tax divisions. Tax courts are presided over by judges with specific training in tax law and are designed to prevent mainstream court systems from being overwhelmed. There are […]
To get help with family court matters, seek a family court attorney who can represent you and provide advice. Family court websites also offer self-help forms and information. Legal aid and pro bono organizations can assist low-income individuals. Self-help materials such as books and online resources are also available. Typically, most people seek the help […]
The Chancery Court originated in England and Wales and dealt with land disputes, trusts, and the affairs of incapacitated persons and minors. In the US and Canada, courts deal with both law and equity. The court of equity determines what is fair and offers recourse for challenging decisions. The Chancery Court is a court of […]
Courtroom videographers record court proceedings and depositions, requiring videography skills and knowledge of the law. They perform video editing, comply with legal standards, and insert visual displays for use in court. They may also provide transcriptions and closed captioning. Professional organizations offer workshops and classes to their members. A courtroom cameraman records court proceedings and […]
An administrative court reviews cases involving public authorities and agencies responsible for enforcing rules and regulations. They handle a variety of cases, but their decisions can be challenged in other courts. Administrative courts vary in their setup and jurisdiction across different countries. An administrative court is a court through which administrative law decisions are made. […]
Ballroom shoes are specifically designed for ballroom dancing, with slip-resistant soles and often a heel to accentuate posture. Different dance styles have different standards for shoes, and professional dancers must meet competition regulations. Ballroom shoes are designed to protect the dancer’s feet and the dance floor, with suede soles and shock-absorbing inserts. Latin and basic […]
Commercial courts settle trade disputes and are established in many developed nations, including France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, England, New Zealand, and some US states and Canadian provinces. Some are separate from existing courts and use honorary judges with business experience, while others are divisions of existing courts with judges who rotate between different areas of […]
The US Constitution does not specify qualifications for Supreme Court justices, including age, education, or citizenship. The president can nominate anyone, but Senate confirmation is necessary. There have been justices born outside the US and with varying levels of education and experience. The Supreme Court was established by Article Three of the United States Constitution, […]
Expert witnesses are called upon to provide testimony in court cases where their specialized knowledge is needed. They are hired and paid by one of the parties involved, but must provide unbiased and well-researched testimony. They are often used in cases involving large sums of money or serious crimes. Finding an expert witness has been […]
County court records contain statistical information about people, businesses, and properties within the region. They also track citizens, including their criminal records and next of kin, and help leaders make decisions about budget and development. While it varies by region, most county court records contain statistical information about people and businesses within the city. This […]
Television court shows broadcast real-life cases, with producers covering costs and paying the winner. Cases are usually minor and chosen for interesting personalities. The loser doesn’t have to pay, but the decision is legally binding due to arbitration laws. Judges are chosen for their charisma. A television court show is a kind of entertainment program […]
Probate is the process of locating and distributing a deceased person’s assets to their heirs or beneficiaries. Probate court records are public and can be accessed through the court where the probate was administered. In the US, probate laws vary by state. Before searching for probate records, gather information about the person, and if the […]
The US Court of International Trade deals with civil matters related to customs law and international trade. It has nationwide jurisdiction and is authorized to hold hearings in other countries. It is a federal court limited to cases related to international trade and can rule on civil suits against the US or foreign countries. Cases […]
Chancery courts base decisions on equity, not common law. England established the first chancery court to provide remedies for disputes not recognized by common law. The US adopted this system, but later abolished it due to inefficiency and high costs, replacing it with the High Court of Justice. A chancery court is a court of […]
The UK’s Court of Protection handles legal and financial matters for mentally disabled individuals. It was established in 2005 to replace a previous system and can appoint proxies or act as executor. It may also be involved in decisions concerning minors and can be approached by guardians, proxies, or power of attorney. The Court of […]
Housing courts handle building code violations and landlord-tenant disputes, with their structure and cases varying by location. Housing courts expedite eviction processes, and some also hear criminal cases related to poor maintenance. Mediation services can also be provided to avoid going to court. In some places, housing issues, including building code violations and landlord-tenant disputes, […]
