En banc

French, meaning “on the bench.” All judges who make up a particular appellate court sitting together to hear a case, instead of the usual panel of three judges.

Enjoin

To issue an injunction.

Entrustment

To give to another the responsibility to care for something with the confidence that care will be taken.

Entry

A written recording of the decision and determinations made by a court that is journalized to document a court action or proceeding.

Equitable

A court remedy that does not involve a payment of money for damages.

Estate

All that a person or entity owns, including both real and personal property.

Et al.

Latin, meaning “and others.” An abbreviation usually used after the first name listed in a case name when there are many parties. (ex: “Smith et al. v. Jones, et al.”)

Et seq.

Latin, meaning “and the following.” Commonly used to refer to numbered lists, pages, or sections that follow after the initial reference.

Evidence

Information presented in testimony or in documents, according to specific court rules, and used to prove a case to the judge or jury.

Exclusionary rule

Doctrine that says evidence obtained in violation of a criminal defendant’s rights is not admissible at trial.

Exculpatory evidence

Evidence indicating that a defendant did not commit the crime.

Executor

A person appointed by a probate court judge to carry out the provisions of a deceased person’s will.

Executory contracts

Contracts or leases under which both parties to the agreement have duties remaining to be performed.

Exigent circumstances

An emergency situation that allows a law enforcement officer who has probable cause that a crime has been committed to act without a warrant.

Ex parte

Latin, meaning “of one part.” On behalf of one party only, and without notice to the other side.

Expunge

To delete, erase, or destroy an offender’s record to make it permanently irretrievable.

Ex relatione

Latin, meaning “upon being related,” and presented in case names as State ex rel. [party name] v. [party name]. Loosely means the action is “on behalf of” the State of Ohio, meaning the people at large.

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.