M'naughten Rule
A traditional "right and wrong" test of legal insanity
M.O
slang for modus operandi, the way or pattern in which a repeat criminal usually
commits his/her crime.
Magistrate
a public civil officer involved with legal determination or under the purview of
one of the three branches of government
Magna Carta
Charter to which subscribed King John of England on June 12, 1215 in which a
basic set of limits were set on he King's powers.
Mailbox Rule
A contract law exception that makes a mailed acceptance of an offer valid as of
posting.
Maintenance
Refers to the obligation of one person to contribute, in part or in whole, to
the cost of living of another person.
Maladministration
Abuse of power by public officers
Malfeasance
Doing something which is illegal.
Malice
a conscious, intentional wrongdoing either of a civil wrong or a criminal act.
This intention includes ill-will and hatred.
Malicious Prosecution
A tort which compensates a person for the malicious, unfounded and unsuccessful
institution of criminal or disciplinary proceedings.