UCCJA

Common name for the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act, which sets out the law when more than one state is involved in a custody dispute.

UIFSA

Common name for the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, which in many states has replaced URESA as the basis for interstate enforcement of support orders.

ultimate fact

At trial, evidence is considered an ultimate fact if its existence is necessary to prove a required element of the crime. A foundation of facts must often be established before the court will allow an ultimate fact to be introduced into evidence. The mere statement by a witness that "John is a crook" is not sufficient to prove John committed a larceny.

underinsured motorist

Insurance coverage where one may make a claim against one's own insurance to recover damages that exceed what the negligent party's' insurance will cover.

uninsured motorist

Automobile insurance coverage allowing for recovery when one is injured due to the negligence of a person without liability insurance coverage.

unconscionable

An agreement that is so grossly unfair that no sensible person would be likely to have entered into it unless that person were acting under duress or was unaware of the agreement's provisions.

unconstitutional

That governmental action, law or police conduct which violates the fundamental principles of the constitution. The ultimate determination of constitutionality is the U.S. Supreme Court.

unemployment insurance benefits

Payments made by a state agency to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.

unemployment compensation benefits

Compensation from the government to a worker who has lost his or her job. These benefits are exempt property in bankruptcy.

union

A group of employees who organize in order to further their common interests as employees. Also known as a "labor union".

union contract

A contract between a union and an employer that covers the union workers' wages, working conditions, and procedures for complaining about problems on the job. Also known as a "collective bargaining agreement" or "CBA".

unlawful detainer

A lawsuit filed by a landlord to evict the tenant.

unsecured debt

Any debt that is not secured by collateral.

usury

Lending money at an interest rate higher than that allowed by law.

URESA

Common name for the Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support Act, which establishes procedures for interstate enforcement of support orders.

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