Glossary Of Common Probate Terms
The intent of this glossary is to provide individuals going through probate with a general understanding of terms commonly used in Probate Law and their application. The definitions within this document are not comprehensive and are not intended to serve as a substitute for independent research of the law or for a probate attorney. We have however, reviewed the terms and we have worked with members of the law to check and review our content to provide you with the best and most up to date information. We believe that probate can be confusing and understanding the different terms is very important to navigate the process.
If you have any questions or would like to contribute to our glossary, please feel free to visit our contact page.

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- Joinder Joining multiple legal issues together to be heard in one trial is the process of "Joinder." Joiners are utilized when two or more parties' disputes overlap, making it easier for a court to hear all involved cases as well as avoid having them(...) Read More
- Joint and survivor annuity A form of pension fund payment in which the retired participant gets a check every month. When the participant dies, the spouse continues to get a monthly check equal to one-half of the benefit for the rest of his or her life. As a(...) Read More
- Joint tenancy Joint tenancy is a way to title (own) property where each person (tenant) owns an undivided interest. When one tenant dies, his or her interest passes to the survivor. Joint tenancy is also a way for two or more people to own property or(...) Read More
- Judgment A court’s decision is authoritative and binding. Read More
- Judicial Council The Judicial Council is an essential body to the administration of justice in Florida. It was established for two main purposes: 1) standardizing court practices and procedures by adopting rules from other states; 2), setting up standards that(...) Read More
- Judicial Officer A Judicial Officer is an official who has the power to decide matters before them. This may include all judges, including those on Supreme Court Justice jobs "What do you think about when someone says 'judge'?" One who has the authority(...) Read More
- Jurisdiction In the United States, courts are given authority by geographic location and case type. In legal terms, jurisdiction is the limit of a court's authority to hear and decide on a variety of lawsuits and other legal actions, including appeals(...) Read More