W – Washington DC Family Law Dictionary
WAGE ASSIGNMENT OR WAGE WITHHOLDING – a court order requiring the employer of a noncustodial parent to deduct a specific amount of money for child support from the wages of the noncustodial parent (also known as garnishment).
WARRANTY DEED – a deed which promises that the seller has clear and unencumbered title to the property.
WAIVER – a written document that relinquishes an individual’s rights.
WELFARE – popular name for Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
WIRETAPPING – improperly and illegal monitoring and recording telephone conversations.
WITH PREJUDICE – refers to something decided, ordered, adjudged, without the opportunity to refile.
WITNESS – a person having knowledge of facts or other information pertaining to a specific situation.
WITHOUT PREJUDICE – refers to something decided, ordered, adjudged, but settled in a way the parties may refile.
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION – fixed awards paid to workers or their dependents in compensation for employment-related accidents or illnesses.
WRIT OF EXECUTION – a court order authorizing the seizure of an asset of a noncustodial parent who owes past due child support. The order usually authorizes the seizure of assets up to the total amount of past due child support owed under the judgment. It is also know as a levy.
WRIT NE EXEAT (ARREST) – an arrest warrant used in emergencies.
WRONGFUL REMOVAL OR RETENTION (of a minor child) – the breach or violation of the other parent’s custody rights under the laws where the child is a habitual resident.