adverse interest
A right or concern that is contrary to the interest or claim of another.

adverse party
The opposite side in a lawsuit. Sometimes when there are numerous parties and cross-complaints, parties may be adverse to each other on some issues and in agreement on other matters.

adverse possession
A means to acquire title to land through obvious occupancy of the land, while claiming ownership for the period of years set by the law of the state where the property exists.

adverse witness
A witness in a trial who is found by the judge to be adverse to the position of the party whose attorney is questioning the witness, even though the attorney called the witness to testify on behalf of his/her client.

advisory opinion
An opinion has no force of law but is given as a matter of courtesy. A private citizen cannot get an advisory ruling from a court and can only get rulings in an actual lawsuit.

affiant
A person who signs an affidavit and swears to its truth before a notary public or some person authorized to take oaths, like a County Clerk. See also: affidavit declarant

affidavit
Any written document in which the signer swears under oath before a notary public or someone authorized to take oaths (like a County Clerk), that the statements in the document are true.