As the legal world continues to evolve, attorneys have to be open to new ideas at every turn. Whether that means working with clients in different ways or using technology to enhance efficiency, there are many aspects of the field that have been referred to as “New Law.” Although this is still a relatively new concept for most lawyers, it’s one that merits careful consideration from those who want to make a name for themselves in the industry.

Legal terms and concepts can be confusing at times, especially for new lawyers. Some of the more common ones are explained below.

A type of court in which a judge sits to hear cases involving appeals and other matters of higher significance. Generally, it has more power and authority than the district court system, but less than the supreme court or highest court of the state.

The branch of law that deals with property, including land, real and personal, and the rights attached to them. It includes a variety of issues, such as the right in rem to ownership of land (which may include easements and covenants), as well as a statutory system for registering property and the law of bankruptcy, trusts and company law.

An order issued by a court directing a person to do something or not to do something. Typically, such orders are issued as the result of a lawsuit or other legal proceeding. They can be either civil or criminal in nature.

The portion of the legal system that governs marriage and divorce, as well as other matters related to families. This branch of the law also governs adoptions and spousal support. It is a broad area of the legal world, which encompasses many other areas as well.

A lawsuit filed by a person seeking damages from another party who has done wrong or failed to live up to their legal obligations. Such a lawsuit is usually based on a contract or other agreement between the parties, and can involve such things as slander, libel, defamation and fraud.

A stipulation that a person will pay money to a creditor in exchange for the release of a debt or claim. The court may award such amounts as compensatory or punitive damages. It is a type of relief available in the civil courts, but not always available in the criminal courts. It is also called a judgment. For other kinds of judgments, see judicial review; de novo. For other kinds of laws, see civil law; criminal law; family law; estate law; inheritance law; international law; and law of the sea.