Unlawful detainer action - A lawsuit brought by a landlord against a tenant to evict the tenant from rental property – usually for nonpayment of rent.⏎
Statute - A law passed by a legislature.⏎
Standard of proof - Degree of proof required. In criminal cases, prosecutors must prove a defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." The majority of civil lawsuits require proof "by a preponderance of the evidence" (50 percent plus), but in some the standard is higher and requires "clear and convincing" proof.⏎
Writ - A written court order directing a person to take, or refrain from taking, a certain act.⏎
Writ of certiorari - An order issued by the U.S. Supreme Court directing the lower court to transmit records for a case which it will hear on appeal.⏎