Consecutive sentence - Prison terms for two or more offenses to be served one after the other. Example: Two five-year sentences and one three-year sentence, if served consecutively, result in a maximum of 13 years behind bars.⏎
Complaint - A written statement that begins a civil lawsuit, in which the plaintiff details the claims against the defendant.⏎
Contingent claim - A claim that may be owed by the debtor under certain circumstances, e.g., where the debtor is a cosigner on another person's loan and that person fails to pay.⏎
Ex parte - A proceeding brought before a court by one party only, without notice to or challenge by the other side.⏎
Community service - A special condition the court imposes that requires an individual to work – without pay – for a civic or nonprofit organization.⏎