Garnishment
The seizing of a person's property, credit or salary, on the basis of
a law which allows it, and for the purposes of paying off a debt. The
person who possesses the assets of the debtor and is the subject of the
seizure is called a "garnishee". This is frequently used in
the enforcement of child support where delinquent debtors will be subjected
to salary garnishment. A percentage of their wages is subtracted directly
off their pay-check and directed to the person in need of support (the
employer being the garnishee).
Gift over
A device used in wills and trusts to provide for the gift of property
to a second recipient if a certain event occurs, such as the death of
the first recipient. For example, I give you my car but on your death
you must give it to your child; that is a gift over to the benefit of
your child.
Grand
Jury
An American criminal justice procedure whereby, in each court district,
a group of 16-23 citizens hold an inquiry on criminal complaints brought
by the prosecutor and decide if a trial is warranted, in which case an
indictment is issued. If a Grand Jury rejects a proposed indictment it
is known as a "no bill"; if they accept to endorse a proposed
indictment it is known as a "true bill".
Gross
negligence
Any action or an omission in reckless disregard of the consequences to
the safety or property of another. Sometimes referred to as "very
great negligence" and it is more then just neglect of ordinary care
towards others or just inadvertence. Also known as the Latin term culpa
lata.
Guardian
An individual who, by legal appointment or by the effect of a written
law, is given custody of both the property and the person of one who is
unable to manage their own affairs, such as a child or mentally-disabled
person.
