Immunity

An exemption from duty or liability under the law.

Impeachment

The process of testing the truth or accuracy of a witness’s testimony.

Improvidently accepted, improvidently allowed

The Supreme Court’s decision that it will dismiss a case it had previously accepted because the case lacks a substantial constitutional question, a question of public or great general interest, or otherwise does not need to be decided by the court.

In camera

Latin, meaning “in a chamber.” Usually in private, outside the public’s or jury’s view.

Incarcerate

To confine to prison or jail.

Inculpatory evidence

Evidence tending to show that a defendant did commit the crime.

Indemnify

To provide financial protection against a future loss though a legal promise to reimburse.

Indictment

The grand jury’s formal statement that a person is alleged to have committed a specific crime or crimes.

Indigent

Being found to be financially unable to pay.

Informant

Someone who confidentially provides information to police, sometimes in exchange for a reward or special treatment.

In forma pauperis

Latin, meaning “in the manner of a pauper.” Permission to file a case without paying court fees because a person is unable to pay.

Information

Written accusation by a prosecutor that a defendant has committed a specific criminal offense.

Injunction

A court order preventing one or more named parties from taking some action. A preliminary injunction often is issued to allow fact-finding, so a judge can determine whether a permanent injunction is justified.

In rem

Latin, meaning “in the thing.” A legal action to determine the rights to a property.

Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts (IOLTA)

A type of bank account that the Ohio Supreme Court requires lawyers and law firms to maintain for the deposit of clients’ money and which generates revenue for the state’s legal aid fund.

Interlocutory appeal

An appeal filed before a final judgment is issued in a case.

Interrogation

The formal questioning of a person, such as the questioning by police of a person in custody.

Interrogatories

Formal written questions to be answered in writing and under oath.

Intervene

To participate in a case between other parties with a court’s permission.

Intervening party

One with an interest in a case who is permitted by a court to participate in the case.

Issue

A disputed point between parties in a lawsuit. Or, to send out officially.

The CNO Legal Glossary is part of an ongoing effort to educate the public about the courts and explain the legal system. The glossary is an evolving, interactive public resource. CNO encourages readers to send in their ideas for words and phrases to be considered for inclusion in the glossary. Submit your suggestions to CNO@sc.ohio.gov. The content of the CNO Legal Glossary does not represent the legal views of the court and is not considered or consulted by the justices in case deliberations.