Habeas corpus
The name of a writ having for its object to bring a person before a court.
Headnote
A brief summary of a legal rule or significant facts in a case, which along with other headnotes, precedes the printed opinion in reports.
Hearing
A formal proceeding (generally less formal than a trial) with definite issues of law or of fact to be heard. Hearings are used extensively by legislative and administrative agencies.
Hearsay
Statements by a witness who did not see or hear the incident in question but heard about it from someone else. Hearsay is usually not admissible as evidence in court.
Hostile witness
A witness whose testimony is not favorable to the party who calls him or her as a witness. A hostile witness may be asked leading questions and may be cross-examined by the party who calls him or her to the stand.
Hung jury
A jury whose members cannot agree upon a verdict.