Welcome to the Civic Lexicon. We believe that the greatest barrier to defending your constitutional rights is often the language used to describe them. To bridge the gap between complex "legalese" and everyday life, we have curated an alphabetized directory of essential legal and civic terms.
Class A Misdemeanor: The most serious category of misdemeanor in Oregon. While not a felony, it is a criminal offense that can result in up to 364 days in jail and fines reaching $6,250. In the context of driving with a suspended license (ORS 811.182), it means you are being charged with a crime, not just a simple traffic ticket.
Lex: A Latin term meaning "The Law." In our context, it represents the written rules, statutes (like ORS 809.430), and legal frameworks created by the government. Lex provides the structure and the "how-to" for running a society.Lex: A Latin term meaning "The Law." In our context, it represents the written rules, statutes (like ORS 809.430), and legal frameworks created by the government. Lex provides the structure and the "how-to" for running a society.
Liberty: The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views. It is the "Why" behind our rights. Liberty is the inherent freedom that the law (Lex) is supposed to protect, not diminish.
See a term you don't understand on the site? Email me at jessetyler.troutman@outlook.com and I'll add it to the Lexicon.