JA glossary terms

Browse full definitions for every JA term in the Amicus glossary.

J'accuse

/ʒ‿akyz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal accusation or charge, often in a public or legal context, famously used as a title in an open letter alleging wrongdoing.
    The pamphlet titled 'J'accuse' accused the government of corruption.

Forms

  • j'accuse
  • j’accuse

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Commentary

Originating from Émile Zola’s 1898 open letter, the phrase is used chiefly in contexts of public legal accusation or charge.

Jail

/ˈdʒeɪl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A place for the confinement of people accused or convicted of crimes, typically for short-term detention.
    The suspect was held in jail awaiting trial.
  2. (v.) To imprison or confine someone in jail.
    The court decided to jail the defendant for contempt.

Forms

  • jails
  • jailed
  • jailing

Related terms

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Commentary

Use 'jail' primarily to denote short-term detention facilities; for long-term incarceration, 'prison' or 'penitentiary' is more appropriate.

Janitor

/ˈdʒænɪtər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An employee responsible for cleaning and maintenance of a building, often engaged in custodial duties.
    The janitor ensured the courthouse was clean and secure after hours.

Forms

  • janitors

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Commentary

In legal contexts, the role of a janitor may implicate labor regulations, workplace safety laws, and contract terms governing employment.

Jargon

/ˈdʒɑːrɡən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Specialized language used by a particular profession, including legal practitioners, often unintelligible to outsiders.
    Legal documents are often filled with jargon that can confuse non-lawyers.

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Commentary

In legal drafting, minimizing jargon promotes clarity and accessibility for clients and courts.

Glossary – JA Terms