Letters/Emails
The most common medium of communication in the legal field.
The two most common types of pleadings.
Complaints and Answers
The name for a motion that would dispose of the whole case (like a motion to dismiss or a motion for summary judgment).
Dispositive Motions
The most common form of oral discovery
Deposition
The legal standard needed to obtain a search warrant
Probable Cause
This determines the tone and level of sophistication you include in your letter.
Audience
This is an optional pleading filed in response to the Answer.
Reply
The legal standard for a motion to dismiss
Has the complaint alleged facts showing a plausible claim for relief?
How to obtain information from a non-party
Subpoena
The type of motion filed to exclude evidence that was obtained illegally
Motion to Suppress
This is the name for a letter advising your client about developments in the case or results of your research.
Client Advice Letter
These are the three components that go into an Answer
Admissions, Denials, Affirmative Defenses
The legal standard for a motion for summary judgment
The type of motion a party files to request that a court order opposing party to make a discovery production
Motion to compel
The type of motion filed in advance of trial to admit or exclude evidence
Motion in limine
This is the name for a letter sent to an opposing party, setting forth your client's request for damages or an injunction.
Demand Letter
This is considered a pleading in California state court but it's called a motion to dismiss in federal court.
Demurrer
This must accompany ever motion you file and it's something the court can simply sign if it rules in your favor
Proposed Order
The type of motion a party files to oppose a subpoena
Motion to quash
The name of the charging document issued by a grand jury
Indictment
This is the name for a letter written by more senior attorneys and common in real estate transactions or corporate matters, advising clients on a course of action.
Opinion letter
In federal court, these are filed in the Answer. In California state court, they are brought in a separate cross-complaint.
Counterclaims
The two tables you must include in a motion if it's over 10 pages here in the Central District of California
Table of Authorities and Table of Contents
The three most common forms of written discovery requests
Request for Admission, Request for Production, Interrogatory
The Supreme Court case that requires prosecutors to turn over exculpatory information
Brady