Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A poor man's court, also known as a rusticum forum, is a group that has the power to make a decision that must be followed. This group may not be a legal court, but it can still make a binding decision. Examples of poor man's courts include arbitration panels and workers' compensation review boards.
Definition: A non-judicial body that has the authority to make a binding decision, such as an arbitral panel or workers' compensation review board. It is also known as Rusticum Forum.
Example: In some countries, there are community-based dispute resolution mechanisms that are considered as poor man's court. These mechanisms are often used by people who cannot afford to go to a formal court or who prefer a more informal process. For instance, in rural areas of India, Panchayats are used to resolve disputes related to land, property, and family matters.
Explanation: The example illustrates how a non-judicial body, such as Panchayats, can act as a poor man's court. These bodies are often composed of community members who are respected and trusted by the people. They provide a forum for resolving disputes in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The poor man's court is an alternative to the formal court system, which can be expensive and time-consuming.