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Glossary

objection The act of taking exception to some statement or procedure in trial. Used to call the courts attention to improper evidence or procedure.	objection overruled A judges rejection of an objection as invalid.

objection sustained Support or agree with an objection. Used by the judge to indicate agreement with a motion or request.	of counsel A phrase commonly applied to counsel employed to assist in the preparation or management of the case, but who is not the principal attorney of record.

option A contract that gives the holder a right or option to buy or sell specified property, such as stock or real estate, at a fixed price for a limited period of time.	oral argument An opportunity for lawyers to summarize their position before the court and also to answer the judges questions.

order A command from the court directing or forbidding an action.	original jurisdiction A courts authority to hear a case in the first instance.

one day-one trial jury service One trial jury service- System used in many jurisdictions where potential jurors serve either for the length of a trial if assigned to a jury or, if not, complete their service in one day.	opinion A written explanation of a decision of a trial court or of the decision of a majority of judges of an appellate court. At the appellate level, a dissenting opinion disagrees with the majority opinion because of the reasoning and/or principles of law on which the decision is based. A concurring opinion agrees with the decision of the court but offers further comment.

offer A proposal made by one party (the offeror) to another person (the offeree) that indicates a willingness to enter into a contract.	order bill of lading A receipt similar to a straight bill of lading, only negotiable and proof of title that can be used to transfer title from one person to another.

order of instrument An item of commercial paper that contains the key words of negotiability, pay to the order of, or the equivalent.	ordinance A law that is passed by a local government, such as a city council.