Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: caveat
Informal Probate: When someone dies, their property and assets need to be distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries. This process is called probate. Informal probate is a simpler and faster way to distribute the property and assets without going through a formal court process. It is usually used when there are no disputes or complications among the heirs or beneficiaries.
Informant: An informant is someone who tells the police or other authorities about a crime. They may do this because they want to help the police or because they want a reward. A citizen-informant is someone who comes forward to give information without expecting any payment, just because they want to help the community.
Informal probate is a legal process that involves settling the estate of a deceased person without a formal court hearing. It is a simpler and faster process than formal probate, which requires a court hearing and can be more expensive.
These examples illustrate the concept of "informal" as being less formal or official than a traditional court hearing or legal process. Informal probate, for example, is a simpler and faster process than formal probate because it does not require a formal court hearing. Similarly, informal rulemaking is a less formal process than traditional rulemaking because it does not require a formal court hearing.