Statistically speaking, most Americans end up in a courtroom at some point during their lives. Even if you’re not among the nearly 80 million individuals in the FBI’s criminal database, you may have to appear before a judge for traffic violations, divorce and child custody matters, non-payment of debts, and other civil lawsuits—or at the very least, you’ll be called to serve on a jury.

That’s why it’s helpful to educate yourself on common legal terms. It’s nerve-racking enough to receive a court summons, but not understanding the terminology used in your case can make it even more difficult, especially if you’re not hiring a lawyer to represent you.