Legal Glossary for Erie Homeowners

A private dispute resolution process where an arbitrator makes a binding decision. Faster than court proceedings but with limited appeal options.

A payment arrangement where the attorney's fee is a percentage (typically 33-40%) of the settlement or judgment. Common in personal injury cases — you pay nothing if you lose.

The legal arrangement determining where a child lives and who makes decisions about their care. Pennsylvania courts prioritize the child's best interest in all custody decisions.

Sworn out-of-court testimony given by a witness or party, recorded by a court reporter. Depositions are a standard part of the discovery process in civil litigation.

The pre-trial process where both sides exchange information, documents, and evidence. Includes depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents.

Driving under the influence charges in Pennsylvania. PA has tiered penalties based on blood alcohol level: general impairment (0.08-0.099%), high rate (0.10-0.159%), and highest rate (0.16%+).

The process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets after death or incapacitation. Includes wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.

A legal entity that holds assets during your lifetime and transfers them to beneficiaries upon death, bypassing probate. Revocable trusts offer flexibility while alive.

A voluntary dispute resolution process where a neutral mediator helps parties reach agreement. Often faster and less expensive than going to trial in Erie County courts.

A legal document authorizing someone to act on your behalf in legal or financial matters. Pennsylvania recognizes both general and durable powers of attorney.

The legal process of validating a will and distributing a deceased person's assets. In Pennsylvania, probate is handled by the Register of Wills in Erie County.

A legal claim for physical or psychological harm caused by another party's negligence. Common cases in Erie include car accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, and workplace incidents.

A negotiated agreement between a defendant and prosecutor where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.

An upfront fee paid to secure an attorney's services. Retainers are common for ongoing matters like family law cases and are drawn down as the attorney bills hours.

The legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years, and breach of contract within 4 years.

A civil wrong that causes harm to another person, giving the injured party the right to sue for damages. Personal injury claims are the most common type of tort case.