Garnishment: A legal proceeding in which a
debtor's money, in the possession of another (called the garnishee), is applied
to the debts of the debtor, such as when an employer garnishes a debtor's wages.
General Jurisdiction: Refers to courts that have no limit on the types
of criminal and civil cases they may hear.
Good Time: A reduction in sentenced time in prison as a reward for
good behavior. It usually is one third to one half off the maximum sentence.
Grand Jury: A body of persons sworn to inquire into crime and if
appropriate, bring accusations (indictments) against the suspected criminals.
Grantor or Settlor: The person who sets up a trust.
Gross Negligence: Intentional failure to perform a manifest duty in
reckless disregard of the consequences to another person's life or property.
There is no clear distinction between gross negligence and willful negligence.
Guardian: A person appointed by will or by law to assume
responsibility for incompetent adults or minor children. If a parent dies, this
will usually be the other parent. If both die, it probably will be a close
relative.
Guardianship: Legal right given to a person to be responsible for the
food, housing, health care, and other necessities of a person deemed incapable
of providing these necessities for himself or herself. A guardian also may be
given responsibility for the person's financial affairs, and thus perform
additionally as a conservator. (See also conservatorship.)
