Glossary of Key Terms

• EDN (Eviction Defense Network): A non-profit organization that provides resources, training, and support to tenants facing eviction.
• Orange Binder: A three-ring binder containing the trial binder (tabs 1-10) and the exhibit binder (tabs 101-125) that serves as an organized and comprehensive guide for tenants in eviction cases.
• Trial Binder: Tabs 1-10 of the orange binder, which contains the battle plan and guide for the tenant and the court, with legal documents, forms and organizational tools.
• Exhibit Binder: Tabs 101-125 of the orange binder, which contains the evidence the tenant will present in court, such as photos, videos, and documents.
• Tenant Empowerment Program (TEP): EDN’s educational program that teaches tenants about their rights and provides them with the tools and knowledge to defend themselves against eviction.
• LA Civ 244: Another name for the trial binder, referring to the Los Angeles civil code form 244, which is the form the court has created to help organize the trial binder.
• Summons and Complaint: The initial legal documents served to a tenant initiating an eviction lawsuit. The summons informs the tenant they are being sued, and the complaint states the landlord’s reasons for the eviction.
• Standing Order: An order issued by the presiding judge that applies to all cases within a specific court or department, setting forth rules and procedures.
• Operative Notice: The specific notice (e.g., notice to pay rent or quit) that forms the basis for the eviction lawsuit. It is usually attached as exhibit two to the complaint.
• Discovery: The formal process of exchanging information and evidence between parties in a lawsuit, including interrogatories, requests for admission, and requests for production of documents.
• Motions in Limine: A petition to the judge to keep certain evidence from the jury.
• 16 Factors Analysis: A tool used by EDN to help tenants evaluate their case and decide whether to fight the eviction or negotiate a move-out agreement.
• Fee Waiver 2: A court form used to request a waiver of court fees, including jury fees and fees for the production of documents by local code enforcement agencies.
• Statement of the Case: A brief explanation of the case.
• Witness List: A list of individuals who will testify on behalf of the tenant or landlord, including their names, contact information, and a summary of their expected testimony.
• Exhibit List: A comprehensive list of all documents, photos, videos, and other evidence that a party intends to present at trial.
• Jury Instructions: A set of legal principles and guidelines that the judge provides to the jury to help them understand the law and apply it to the facts of the case.
• Verdict Form: A document that the jury uses to record its decision in a case, indicating whether they find for the plaintiff or the defendant.
• Move Out Agreement: A contract setting forth the terms for vacating the premises.
• Trial Briefs: A written document submitted to the court before trial, outlining the legal issues and arguments that a party intends to present.
• PIP (Plaintiff in Possession):
• EE Filing: The electronic filing of court documents.