Answer - The formal written statement by a defendant in a civil case that responds to a complaint, articulating the grounds for defense.⏎
Affirmed - In the practice of the court of appeals, it means that the court of appeals has concluded that the lower court decision is correct and will stand as rendered by the lower court.⏎
Case file - A complete collection of every document filed in court in a case.⏎
Active judge - A judge in the full-time service of the court. Compare to senior judge.⏎
Burden of proof - The duty to prove disputed facts. In civil cases, a plaintiff generally has the burden of proving his or her case. In criminal cases, the government has the burden of proving the defendant's guilt. (See standard of proof.)⏎