Sua sponte - Latin, meaning "of its own will." Often refers to a court taking an action in a case without being asked to do so by either side.⏎
Writ - A written court order directing a person to take, or refrain from taking, a certain act.⏎
Voir dire - Jury selection process of questioning prospective jurors, to ascertain their qualifications and determine any basis for challenge.⏎
Uphold - The appellate court agrees with the lower court decision and allows it to stand. See affirmed.⏎
Writ of certiorari - An order issued by the U.S. Supreme Court directing the lower court to transmit records for a case which it will hear on appeal.⏎