quasi legal definition

Alike in some sense, but not in actuality; resembling something but not really being it; nearly; almost like.

See contract.

A proceeding similar in nature to a criminal trial in that the defendant, if he loses, will be subject to penalties such as fine, loss of job, or confinement, yet it is not a criminal trial presided over by a judge. A parole hearing or a probation hearing are two examples of such.

See in rem.