| a fortiori |
from stronger |
An a fortiori argument is an "argument from a stronger reason", meaning that, because one fact is true, a second (related and included) fact must also be true. |
/ˌeɪ fɔːrtiˈoʊraɪ,ˌeɪ fɔːrʃiˈoʊraɪ/ |
| a mensa et thoro |
from table and bed |
Divorce a mensa et thoro indicates legal separation without legal divorce. |
/ˌeɪ ˈmɛnsə ɛtˈθoʊroʊ/ |
| a posteriori |
from later |
An argument derived after an event, having the knowledge about the event. Inductive reasoning from observations and experiments. |
/ˌeɪˌpɒstiːrioʊraɪ/ |
| a priori |
from earlier |
An argument derived before an event, without needing to have the knowledge about the event. Deductive reasoning from general principles. |
/ˌeɪ praɪoʊraɪ/ |
| a quo |
from which |
Regarding a court below in an appeal, either a court of first instance or an appellate court, known as the court a quo. |
/ˌeɪ ˈkwoʊ/ |
| ab extra |
from outside |
Concerning a case, a person may have received some funding from a 3rd party. This funding may have been considered ab extra. |
/ˌæb ˈɛkstrə/ |
| ab initio |
from the beginning |
"Commonly used referring to the time a contract, statute, marriage, or deed become legal. e.g. The couple was covered ab initio by her health policy."[1] |
/ˌæb ɪˈnɪʃioʊ/ |
| absque hoc |
without this |
"Presenting the negative portion of a plea when pleading at common by way a special traverse."[1] |
/ˌæbskweɪˈhɒk/ |
| Actio non datur non damnificato |
An action is not given to one who is not injured. |
The requirement that in most private legal actions, the person bringing the action must have been damaged in some way.[2] |
|
| Actus legis nemini facit injurium |
The act of law injures no one. |
|
|
| Actus non facit reum, nisi mens sit rea |
No act is punishable that is not the result of a guilty mind. |
The prosecution in a criminal case must prove beyond a reasonable doubt, not only a criminal act, but also a certain level of a guilty mind (mens rea), specified in the criminal statute.[3] |
|
| actus reus |
guilty act |
Part of what proves criminal liability (with mens rea). |
/ˌæktəs ˈriːəs/ |
| ad coelum |
to the sky |
Abbreviated from Cuius est solum eius est usque ad coelum et ad infernos which translates to "[for] whoever owns [the] soil, [it] is his all the way [up] to Heaven and [down] to Hell." The principle that the owner of a parcel of land also owns the air above and the ground below the parcel. |
/ˌæd ˈsiːləm/ |
| ad colligenda bona |
to collect the goods |
In cases of a disputed will, delay may endanger the assets of the deceased. Therefore, a court can give a person a writ of ad colligenda bona, which entitles them to collect and preserve the goods while their rightful owner is determined. Afterwards, that person will release the goods to the rightful owner.[4] |
/ˌædˈkɒlliːdʒɛndəˈboʊnə/ |
| ad hoc |
for this |
Generally signifies a solution designed for a specific problem or task, non-generalizable, and not intended to be able to be adapted to other purposes. |
/ˌæd ˈhɒk/ |
| ad hominem |
at the person |
Attempting to make a point of logic by attacking an opponent's character rather than answering their argument. |
/ˌædˈhɒmɪnɛm/ |
| ad idem |
to the same thing |
In agreement. |
/ˌæd ˈaɪdəm/ |
| ad infinitum |
to infinity |
To continue forever. |
/ˌædɪnfɪˈnaɪtəm/ |
| ad litem |
for the case |
Describes those designated to represent parties deemed incapable of representing themselves, such as a child or incapacitated adult. |
/ˌæd ˈlaɪtɛm/ |
| ad quod damnum |
according to the harm |
Used in tort law. Implies that the reward or penalty ought to correspond to the damage suffered or inflicted. |
|
| ad valorem |
according to value |
|
/ˌædvəˈloʊrɛm/ |
| adjournment sine die |
adjournment without a day |
When an assembly adjourns without setting a date for its next meeting. |
/ˌsaɪni ˈdaɪi/ |
| affidavit |
he has sworn |
A formal statement of fact. |
/ˌæfɪˈdeɪvɪt/ |
| allocatur |
it is allowed |
Generally, a statement from a court that a writ is allowed (i.e. granted); most commonly, a grant of leave to appeal by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, in reference to which the word is used equivalently to certiorari (q.v.) elsewhere. |
/ˌælloʊkeɪtʊr/ |
| alter ego |
another I |
A second identity living within a person. |
/ˌɒltər ˈiɡoʊ/ |
| Alteri stipulari nemo potest |
No-one can alter on their own a contract |
|
|
| amicus curiae |
friend of the court |
A person who offers information to a court regarding a case before it. |
/əˈmaɪkəsˈkjuːrii/ |
| animus contrahendi |
contractual intent |
Intention to contract. |
/ˈænɪməskɑːnˈtrəhɛndi/ |
| animus manendi |
intention to remain |
The subjective intent to remain indefinitely in a place so as to establish it as one's permanent residence.[5] Along with actual residence, this is used to establish domicile.[6] Also called animus remanendi. See diversity of citizenship. |
|
| animus nocendi |
intention to harm |
The subjective state of mind of the author of a crime, with reference to the exact knowledge of illegal content of their behaviour, and of its possible consequences. |
|
| animus possidendi |
intention to possess |
"In order to claim possessory rights, an individual must establish physical control of the res and the intention to possess (i.e. animus possidendi)"[7] |
|
| animus revertendi |
intention to return |
"Wild animals, such as bees and homing pigeons, that by habit go 'home' to their possessor. Used when discussing ferae naturae."[7] |
|
| animus testandi |
testamentary intent |
The intention, when writing a document, that the document should serve as a last will and testament.[8] |
|
| ante |
before |
“An antenuptial agreement is a contract between two people that is executed before marriage.” |
|
| (in) arguendo |
for the sake of argument |
|
|
| bona fide |
in good faith |
Implies sincere good intention regardless of outcome. |
/ˈboʊnə ˈfaɪdi/ |
| bona vacantia |
ownerless goods |
|
|
| cadit quaestio |
the question falls |
Indicates that a settlement to a dispute or issue has been reached, and the issue is now resolved. |
|
| casus belli |
case of war |
The justification for acts of war. |
/ˈkeɪsəs ˈbɛlaɪ/ |
| caveat |
May he beware |
When used by itself, refers to a qualification, or warning. |
|
| caveat emptor |
Let the buyer beware |
In addition to the general warning, also refers to a legal doctrine wherein a buyer could not get relief from a seller for defects present on property which rendered it unfit for use. |
/ˈkæviætˈɛmptɔːr/ |
| certiorari |
to be apprised |
A type of writ seeking judicial review. |
/ˌsɜːrʃiəˈreɪraɪ,ˌsɜːrʃiəˈreɪri/ |
| cessante ratione legis cessat ipsa lex |
when the reason for a law ceases, so does the law itself |
Herbert Broom′s text of 1858 on legal maxims lists the phrase under the heading ″Rules of logic″, stating: Reason is the soul of the law, and when the reason of any particular law ceases, so does the law itself.[9] |
|
| ceteris paribus |
with other things the same |
More commonly rendered in English as "All other things being equal." |
/ˌsɛtərɪsˈpærɪbəs/ |
| compos mentis |
having command of mind |
Of sound mind. Also used in the negative "Non compos mentis", meaning "Not of sound mind". |
/ˈkɒmpɒsˈmɛntɪs/ |
| condicio sine qua non |
A condition without which it could not be |
An indispensable and essential action, condition, or ingredient. |
|
| consensus ad idem |
agreement to the same |
Meeting of the minds, mutual assent, or concurrence of wills. Parties must be of one mind and their promises must relate to the same subject or object[10] Also consensus in idem. |
|
| contra |
against |
Used in case citations to indicate that the cited source directly contradicts the point being made. |
|
| contra legem |
against the law |
Used when a court or tribunal hands down a decision that is contrary to the laws of the governing state. |
|
| contradictio in adjecto |
contradiction in adjective |
A contradiction where adjective contradicts its noun (e.g., a square triangle). |
|
| contra proferentem |
against the one bringing forth |
Used in contract law to stipulate that an ambiguous term in a contract shall be interpreted against the interests of the party that insisted upon the term's inclusion. Prevents the intentional additions of ambiguous terminology from being exploited by the party who insisted on its inclusion. |
|
| coram non judice |
before one who is not a judge |
Refers to a legal proceeding without a judge, or with a judge who does not have proper jurisdiction. |
|
| corpus delicti |
body of the crime |
A person cannot be convicted of a crime, unless it can be proven that the crime was even committed. |
/ˈkɔːrpəsdɪˈlɪktaɪ/ |
| corpus juris |
body of law |
The complete collection of laws of a particular jurisdiction or court. |
/ˈkɔːrpəsˈdʒuːrɪs/ |
| corpus juris civilis |
body of civil law |
The complete collection of civil laws of a particular jurisdiction or court. Also sometimes used to refer to the Code of Justinian. |
/ˈkɔːrpəsˈdʒuːrɪssɪˈvaɪlɪs/ |
| corpus juris gentium |
body of the law of nations |
The complete collection of international law. |
|
| corpus juris secundum |
|
An encyclopedia of US law drawn from US Federal and State court decisions. |
|
| crimen falsi |
crime of falsifying |
Forgery. |
|
| cui bono |
as a benefit to whom? |
Suggests that the perpetrator(s) of a crime can often be found by investigating those who would have benefited financially from the crime, even if it is not immediately obvious. |
|
| curia advisari vult |
the court wishes to consider |
Signifies the intent of a court to consider the points of law argued during advocacy, prior to judgement. |
|
| de bonis asportatis |
carrying goods away |
Specifies that larceny was taking place in addition to any other crime named. E.g. "trespass de bonis asportatis". |
|
| debellatio |
warring down |
Complete annihilation of a warring party, bringing about the end of the conflict. |
|
| de bonis non administratis |
of goods not administered |
Assets of an estate remaining after the death (or removal) of the designated estate administrator. An "administrator de bonis non administratis" will then be appointed to dispose of these goods. |
|
| de die in diem |
from day to day |
Generally refers to a type of labor in which the worker is paid fully at the completion of each day's work. |
|
| de facto |
in fact |
Literally "from fact"; often used to mean something that is true in practice, but has not been officially instituted or endorsed. "For all intents and purposes". Cf. de jure. |
|
| de futuro |
concerning the future |
At a future date. |
|
| de integro |
concerning the whole |
Often used to mean "start it all over", in the context of "repeat de integro". |
|
| de jure |
according to law |
Literally "from law"; something that is established in law, whether or not it is true in general practice. Cf. de facto. |
|
| de lege ferenda |
of the law as it should be |
Used in the context of "how the law should be", such as for proposed legislation. |
|
| de lege lata |
of the law as it is |
Concerning the law as it exists, without consideration of how things should be. |
|
| de minimis |
about the smallest things |
Various legal areas concerning small amounts or small degrees. |
|
| de minimis non curat lex |
the law is not concerned with minimal things |
The rule that the law will not remedy an injury that is minimal.[11] |
|
| de novo |
anew |
Often used in the context of "trial de novo" – a new trial ordered when the previous one failed to reach a conclusion. |
|
| deorum injuriae diis curae |
The gods take care of injuries to the gods |
Blasphemy is a crime against the State, rather than against God. |
|
| dictum |
(thing) said |
A statement given some weight or consideration due to the respect given the person making it. |
|
| doli incapax |
incapable of guilt |
Presumption that young children or persons with diminished mental capacity cannot form the intent to commit a crime. |
|
| dolus bonus |
|
Justinian Digest |
|
| dolus malus |
|
Justinian Digest |
|
| dolus specialis |
Specific deceit |
Heavily used in the context of genocide in international law. |
|
| domitae naturae |
tame by nature |
Tame or domesticated animal. Also called mansuetae naturae. Opposite of ferae naturae (below) |
|
| donatio mortis causa |
deathbed gift |
Gift causa mortis; "The donor, contemplating imminent death, declares words of present gifting and delivers the gift to the donee or someone who clearly takes possession on behalf of the donee. The gift becomes effective at death but remains revocable until that time."[7] |
|
| dramatis personae |
persons of the drama |
|
|
| duces tecum |
bring with you |
A "subpoena duces tecum" is a summons to produce physical evidence for a trial. |
|
| ejusdem generis |
of the same class |
Known as a "canon of construction", it states that when a limited list of specific things also includes a more general class, that the scope of that more general class shall be limited to other items more like the specific items in the list. |
|
| eo nomine |
by that name |
|
|
| erga omnes |
towards all |
Refers to rights or obligations that are owed towards all. |
|
| ergo |
therefore |
|
|
| erratum |
having been made in error |
|
|
| et al. |
and others |
Abbreviation of et alii, meaning "and others". |
|
| et cetera |
and other things |
Generally used in the sense of "and so forth". |
|
| et seq. |
and the following things |
Abbreviation of et sequens, meaning "and the following ones". Used in citations to indicate that the cited portion extends to the pages following the cited page. |
|
| et uxor |
and wife |
Usually used instead of naming a man's wife as a party in a case. |
/ˌɛt ˈʌksɔːr/ |
| et vir |
and husband |
Usually used instead of naming a woman's husband as a party in a case. |
/ˌɛt ˈvɜːr/ |
| ex aequo et bono |
of equity and [the] good |
Usually defined as "what is right and good." Used to describe the power of a judge or arbiter to consider only what is fair and good for the specific case, and not necessarily what the law may require. In courts, usually only done if all parties agree. |
|
| ex ante |
of before |
Essentially meaning "before the event", usually used when forecasting future events. |
/ˌɛks ˈænti/ |
| ex cathedra |
from the chair |
Where chair refers to authority or position. Authority derived from one's position. |
|
| ex concessis |
from what has been conceded already |
Also known as "argument from commitment", a type of valid ad hominem argument. |
|
| ex delicto |
from a transgression |
The consequence of a crime or tort. |
|
| ex demissione |
from a transgression |
part of the title of the old action of ejectment
Jones v. Doe ex dem. Smith |
|
| Ex dolo malo non oritur actio |
No action arises from harm |
|
|
| ex facie |
on the face |
If a contract is blatantly and obviously incorrect or illegal, it can be considered void ex facie without any further analysis or arguments. |
|
| ex fida bona |
good business norms |
|
|
| ex gratia |
by favor |
Something done voluntarily and with no expectation of a legal liability arising therefrom. |
|
| ex officio |
from the office |
Something done or realized by the fact of holding an office or position. |
|
| ex parte |
from [for] one party |
A decision reached, or case brought, by or for one party without the other party being present. |
|
| ex post |
from after |
Based on knowledge of the past. |
|
| ex post facto |
from a thing done afterward |
Commonly said as "after the fact." |
|
| ex post facto law |
|
A retroactive law. E.g. a law that makes illegal an act that was not illegal when it was done. |
|
| ex proprio motu |
by [one's] own motion |
Commonly spoken as "by one's own accord." |
|
| ex rel |
[arising] out of the narration [of the relator] |
Abbreviation of ex relatione. Used when the government brings a case that arises from the information conveyed to it by a third party ("relator"). |
|
| ex tempore |
At the time |
Referring to a decision delivered at the time of a hearing, rather than having the judgment reserved for a later date. |
|
| exempli gratia |
for the sake of example |
Usually abbreviated "e.g.". |
|
| ex tunc |
from then |
Term used in contract law to specify terms that are voided or confirmed in effect from the execution of the contract. Cf. ex nunc. |
|
| Ex turpi causa non oritur actio |
|
|
|
| ex nunc |
from now on |
Term used in contract law to specify terms that are voided or confirmed in effect only in the future and not prior to the contract, or its adjudication. Cf. ex tunc. |
|
| extant |
existing |
Refers to things that are currently existing at a given point, rather than things that are no longer so. |
|
| facio ut facias |
I do, that you may do |
A type of contract wherein one party agrees to do work for the other, in order that the second party can then perform some work for the first in exchange. |
|
| factum |
deed |
1. an assured statement made; 2. completion of a will and all its parts to make it valid and legal; 3). book of facts and law presented in a Canadian court. |
|
| favor contractus |
favor of the contract |
A concept in treaty law that prefers the maintaining of a contract over letting it expire for purely procedural reasons. |
|
| felo de se |
felon of himself |
A suicide. This archaic term stems from English common law, where suicide was legally a felony, thus a person who committed suicide was treated as a felon for purposes of estate disposal. |
|
| ferae naturae |
wild animals by nature |
Wild animals residing on unowned property do not belong to any party in a dispute on the land. Opposite of domitae naturae (above). |
|
| fiat |
Let it be done. |
A warrant issued by a judge for some legal proceedings. |
|
| fieri facias |
May you cause to be done. |
A writ ordering the local law enforcement to ensure that damages awarded by the court are properly recovered. A writ of execution. |
|
| fortis attachiamentum, validior praesumptionem |
strong attachment, the stronger presumption |
When determining whether a chattel is a fixture: "size doesn't matter, how much or degree chattel is attached to 'land' and to 'what' " |
|
| forum non conveniens |
disagreeable forum |
A concept wherein a court refuses to hear a particular matter, citing a more appropriate forum for the issue to be decided. |
/ˈfoʊrəm nɒnkənˈviːniɛnz/ |
| fumus boni iuris |
smoke of a good right |
Refers to having a sufficient legal basis to bring legal action. |
|
| functus officio |
having performed his office |
A person, court, statute, or legal document that has no legal authority, because its original legal purpose has been fulfilled. |
|
| gravamen |
things weighing down |
The basic element or complaint of a lawsuit. |
/ɡrəˈveɪmɛn/ |
| guardian ad litem |
guardian for the case |
An independent party appointed in family law disputes to represent parties that cannot represent themselves, such as minors, developmentally disabled, or elderly. |
|
| habeas corpus |
May you have the body. |
A writ used to challenge the legality of detention. Orders the detaining party to "have the (living) body" of the detained brought before the court where the detention will be investigated. |
/ˈheɪbiəsˈkɔːrpəs/ |
| hostis humani generis |
enemy of the human race |
A party considered to be the enemy of all nations, such as maritime pirates. |
|
| imprimatur |
Let it be printed. |
An authorization for a document to be printed. Used in the context of approval by a religious body or other censoring authority. |
|
| in absentia |
in absence |
A legal proceeding conducted without the presence of one party is said to be conducted in absentia, e.g., trial in absentia or being sentenced in absentia. |
|
| in articulo mortis |
at the moment of death |
Often used in probate law, as well as for testimony in the sense of a dying declaration. |
|
| in camera |
in the chamber |
Conducted in private, or in secret. The opposite of in open court. |
|
| in curia |
in court |
Conducted in open court. The opposite of in camera. |
|
| in esse |
in existence |
Actually existing in reality. Opposite of in posse. |
|
| in extenso |
in the extended |
In extended form, or at full length. Often used to refer to publication of documents, where it means the full unabridged document is published. |
|
| in extremis |
in the extreme |
In extreme circumstances. Often used to refer to "at the point of death." |
|
| in flagrante delicto |
in blazing offense |
Caught in the actual act of committing a crime. Often used as a euphemism for a couple caught in the act of sexual intercourse, though it technically refers to being "caught in the act" of any misdeed. |
|
| in forma pauperis |
in the manner of a pauper |
Someone unable to afford the costs associated with a legal proceeding. As this will not be a barrier to seeking justice, such persons are given in forma pauperis status (usually abbreviated IFP), wherein most costs are waived or substantially reduced. |
/ɪn ˌfɔːrməˈpɔːpərɪs/ |
| in futuro |
in the future |
Refers to things to come, or things that may occur later but are not so now. As in in futuro debts, i.e. debts which become due and payable in the future. |
/ɪn fjuːˈtjuːroʊ/ |
| in haec verba |
in these words |
Used when including text in a complaint verbatim, where its appearance in that form is germane to the case, or is required to be included. |
|
| in limine |
at the threshold |
A motion to a judge in a case that is heard and considered outside the presence of the jury. |
|
| in loco parentis |
in the place of a parent |
Used to refer to a person or entity assuming the normal parental responsibilities for a minor. This can be used in transfers of legal guardianship, or in the case of schools or other institutions that act in the place of the parents on a day-to-day basis. |
/ɪn ˌloʊkoʊpəˈrɛntɪs/ |
| in mitius |
in the milder |
A type of retroactive law that decriminalizes offenses committed in the past. Also known as an amnesty law. |
|
| in omnibus |
in all |
Used to mean "in every respect." Something applying to every aspect of a situation. |
|
| in pari delicto |
in equal offense |
Used when both parties to a case are equally at fault. |
|
| in pari materia |
in the same matter |
Refers to a situation where a law or statute may be ambiguous, and similar laws applying to the matter are used to interpret the vague one. |
|
| in personam |
in person |
Used in the context of "directed at this particular person", refers to a judgement or subpoena directed at a specific named individual. Cf. in rem. |
|
| in pleno |
in full |
|
|
| in propria persona |
in one's own person |
Said of one who represents themselves in court without the [official] assistance of an attorney. |
|
| in re |
in the matter [of] |
Used in the title of a decision or comment to identify the matter they are related to; usually used for a case where the proceeding is in rem or quasi in rem and not in personam (e.g. probate or bankrupt estate, guardianship, application for laying out a public highway) and occasionally for an ex parte proceeding (e.g. application for a writ of habeas corpus). |
/ɪn ˈriː/ |
| in rem |
about a thing |
Used in the context of a case against property, as opposed to a particular person. See also in rem jurisdiction. Cf. in personam. |
/ɪn ˈrɛm/ |
| in situ |
in position |
Often used in the context of decisions or rulings about a property or thing "left in place" after the case as it was before. |
/ɪn ˈsaɪtjuː, ɪnˈsɪtjuː/ |
| in terrorem |
in order to frighten |
A warning or threat to sue, made in the hopes of convincing the other party to take action to avoid a lawsuit. |
|
| in terroremclause |
clause "in order to frighten" |
A clause in a will that threatens any party who contests the will with being disinherited. Also called a no-contest clause. |
|
| in toto |
in total |
|
/ɪn ˈtoʊtoʊ/ |
| indicia |
indications |
Often used in copyright notices. Refers to distinctive markings that identify a piece of intellectual property. |
|
| infra |
below or under |
|
|
| iniuria sine damno |
injury without financial or property loss |
It was stated in Ashby v. White that the law makes a presumption of damage in the absence of actual perceptible damage or financial loss and that the infringement of a right was enough for iniuria sine damno to be actionable.[12] |
/ɪnˈjuːriə ˈsaɪniˈdæmnoʊ/ |
| innuendo |
by nodding |
An intimation about someone or something, made indirectly or vaguely suggesting the thing being implied. Often used when the implied thing is negative or derogatory. |
|
| inter alia |
among others |
Used to indicate an item cited has been pulled from a larger or more complete list. |
/ˌɪntər ˈeɪliə/ |
| inter rusticos |
among rustics |
Refers to contract, debts, or other agreements made between parties who are not legal professionals. |
|
| inter se |
amongst themselves |
Refers to obligations between members of the same group or party, differentiated from the whole party's obligations to another party. |
|
| inter vivos |
between the living |
Refers to a gift or other non-sale transfer between living parties. This is in contrast to a will, where the transfer takes effect upon one party's death. |
/ˌɪntər ˈvaɪvɒs/ |
| intra |
within |
|
|
| intra fauces terrae |
within the jaws of the land |
This term refers to a nation's territorial waters. |
|
| intra legem |
within the law |
Used in various contexts to refer to the legal foundation for a thing. |
|
| intra vires |
within the powers |
Something done which requires legal authority, and the act is performed accordingly. Cf. ultra vires. |
|
| ipse dixit |
He himself said it. |
An assertion given undue weight solely by virtue of the person making the assertion. |
/ˈɪpsi ˈdɪksɪt/ |
| ipsissima verba |
the very words |
Referring to a document or ruling that is being quoted by another. |
|
| ipso facto |
by the fact itself |
Used in the context that one event is a direct and immediate consequence of another. "In and of itself." |
/ˈɪpsoʊˈfæktoʊ/ |
| ipso jure |
the law itself |
By operation of law. |
|
| ius civile vigilantibus scriptum est |
civil law is written for the vigilant |
Noting, that private law is written for those persons who are vigilant in pursuing their interests and diligently care for their own affairs. |
|
| jurat |
(He) swears |
Appears at the end of an affidavit, where the party making the affirmation signs the oath, and the information on whom the oath was sworn before is placed. |
|
| juris privati |
of private right |
Not clothed with a public interest. |
|
| jus |
law, right |
Essentially: law. |
|
| jus accrescendi |
right of survivorship |
Right of survivorship: In property law, on the death of one joint tenant, that tenant's interest passes automatically to the surviving tenant(s) to hold jointly until the estate is held by a sole tenant. The only way to defeat the right of survivorship is to sever the joint tenancy during the lifetime of the parties, the right of survivorship takes priority over a will or interstate accession rules.[7] |
|
| jus ad bellum |
laws to war |
Refers to legalities considered before entering into a war, to ensure it is legal to go to war initially. Not to be confused with ius in bello(q.v.), the "laws of war" concerning how war is carried out. |
|
| jus civile |
civil law |
A codified set of laws concerning citizenry, and how the laws apply to them. |
|
| jus cogens |
compelling law |
Internationally agreed laws that bear no deviation, and do not require treaties to be in effect. An example is law prohibiting genocide. |
|
| jus gentium |
law of nations |
Customary law followed by all nations. Nations being at peace with one another, without having to have an actual peace treaty in force, would be an example of this concept. |
|
| jus in bello |
law in war |
Laws governing the conduct of parties in war. |
|
| jus inter gentes |
law between the peoples |
Laws governing treaties and international agreements. |
|
| jus legationis |
right of legation |
The right to send and receive diplomatic representation |
|
| jus naturale |
natural law |
Laws common to all people, that the average person would find reasonable, regardless of their nationality. |
|
| jus primae noctis |
right of the first night |
Supposed right of the lord of an estate to take the virginity of women in his estate on their wedding night. |
|
| jus sanguinis |
right of blood |
Social law concept wherein citizenship of a nation is determined by having one or both parents being citizens. |
/ˈdʒʌsˈsæŋɡwɪnɪs/ |
| jus soli |
right of soil |
Social law concept wherein citizenship of a nation is determined by place of birth. |
/ˈdʒʌs ˈsoʊlaɪ/ |
| jus tertii |
law of the third |
Arguments made by a third party in disputes over possession, the intent of which is to question one of the principal parties' claims of ownership or rights to ownership. |
|
| lacuna |
void, gap |
A situation arising that is not covered by any law, especially when related situations are covered by the law or where the situation appears to fall "between" multiple laws. Generally used in International Law, which is less comprehensive than most domestic legal systems. |
|
| lex communis |
common law |
Alternate form of jus commune. Refers to common facets of civil law that underlie all aspects of the law. |
|
| lex fori |
|
the law of the country in which an action is brought out |
|
| lex lata |
the carried law |
The law as it has been enacted. |
|
| lex loci |
the law of the place |
The law of the country, state, or locality where the matter under litigation took place. Usually used in contract law, to determine which laws govern the contract. |
/ˈlɛks ˈloʊsaɪ/ |
| lex scripta |
written law |
Law that specifically codifies something, as opposed to common law or customary law. |
|
| liberum veto |
free veto |
An aspect of a unanimous voting system, whereby any member can end discussion on a proposed law. |
|
| lingua franca |
the Frankish language |
A language common to an area that is spoken by all, even if not their mother tongue. Term derives from the name given to a common language used by traders in the Mediterranean basin dating from the Middle Ages. |
|
| lis alibi pendens |
lawsuit elsewhere pending |
Refers to requesting a legal dispute be heard that is also being heard by another court. To avoid possibly contradictory judgements, this request will not be granted. |
|
| lis pendens |
suit pending |
Often used in the context of public announcements of legal proceedings to come. Compare pendente lite (below). |
|
| locus |
place |
|
|
| locus delicti |
place of the crime |
Shorthand version of Lex locus delicti commissi. The "scene of the crime". |
|
| locus in quo |
the place in which |
The location where a cause of action arose. |
|
| locus poenitentiae |
place of repentance |
When one party withdraws from a contract before all parties are bound. |
|
| locus standi |
place of standing |
The right of a party to appear and be heard before a court. |
/ˈloʊkəsˈstændaɪ/ |
| mala fide |
(in) bad faith |
A condition of being fraudulent or deceptive in act or belief. |
|
| malum in se |
wrong in itself |
Something considered a universal wrong or evil, regardless of the system of laws in effect. |
|
| malum prohibitum |
prohibited wrong |
Something wrong or illegal by virtue of it being expressly prohibited, that might not otherwise be so. |
|
| mandamus |
we command |
A writ issue by a higher court to a lower one, ordering that court or related officials to perform some administrative duty. Often used in the context of legal oversight of government agencies. |
/mænˈdeɪməs/ |
| mare clausum |
closed sea |
A body of water under the jurisdiction of a state or nation, to which access is not permitted, or is tightly regulated. |
/ˈmeɪriˈklɔːzəm/ |
| mare liberum |
open sea |
A body of water open to all. Typically a synonym for International Waters, or in other legal parlance, the "High Seas". |
|
| mea culpa |
through my fault |
An acknowledgement of wrongdoing. |
/ˈmeɪ.əˈkul.pə/ |
| mens rea |
guilty mind |
One of the requirements for a crime to be committed, the other being actus reus, the guilt act. This essentially is the basis for the notion that those without sufficient mental capability cannot be judged guilty of a crime. |
/ˈmɛns ˈriːə/ |
| modus operandi |
manner of operation |
A person's particular way of doing things. Used when using behavioral analysis while investigating a crime. Often abbreviated "M.O." |
/ˈmoʊdəsɒpəˈrændaɪ,ˈmoʊdəsɒpəˈrændi/ |
| mortis causa |
in contemplation of death |
Gift or trust that is made in contemplation of death. |
|
| mos pro lege |
custom for law |
That which is the usual custom has the force of law. |
|
| motion in limine |
motion at the start |
Motions offered at the start of a trial, often to suppress or pre-allow certain evidence or testimony. |
|
| mutatis mutandis |
having changed [the things that] needed to be changed |
A caution to a reader when using one example to illustrate a related but slightly different situation. The caution is that the reader must adapt the example to change what is needed for it to apply to the new situation. |
|
| ne exeat |
let him not exit [the republic] |
Shortened version of ne exeat republica: "let him not exit the republic". A writ to prevent one party to a dispute from leaving (or being taken) from the court's jurisdiction. |
/ˈniː ˈɛksiæt/ |
| Nemo dat quod non habet |
Nobody can give what he has not |
bankruptcy law |
|
| Nemo debet bis vexari (pro una et eadem causa) |
No-one should be tried twice (for one and the same charge) |
It is a principle of double jeopardy (autrefois acquit) where a person should not be tried twice on the same matter. |
|
| Nemo iudex in causa sua |
No-one should be a judge in his own case. |
It is a principle of natural justice that no person can judge a case in which they have an interest. |
|
| Nemo potest dare quod suum non est |
No one can give what he possesses not |
inter alia, see Dante on monarchy |
|
| Nemo potest esse tenens et dominus |
No one can at the same time be a tenant and a landlord |
Nor can one person covenant with himself and others jointly |
|
| Nemo potest mutare consilium suum in alterius iniuriam |
Nobody can change his own purpose to another's injury |
|
|
| Nemo potest nisi quod de jure potest |
A person can do only things, which s/he can do lawfully. |
Under law, a thing which cannot be lawfully performed is considered not within one's power. |
|
| Nemo potest praecise cogi ad factum |
Nobody can be forced to a specific act |
|
|
| Nemo potest venire contra factum proprium |
No-one can act in a way contrary to his own prior actions. |
doctrines of promissory estoppel and equitable estoppel; prohibited for a party to act in such a way that contradicts a previous act of his own on which the other party relied, thus causing a detriment to the latter. |
|
| Nemo potest facere per alium quod per se non potest |
No one can do through another what he cannot do himself. |
|
|
| nihil dicit |
He says nothing. |
A judgement rendered in the absence of a plea, or in the event one party refuses to cooperate in the proceedings. |
|
| nisi |
unless |
A decree that does not enter into force unless some other specified condition is met. |
/ˈnaɪsaɪ/ |
| nisi prius |
unless first |
Refers to the court of original jurisdiction in a given matter. |
/ˈnaɪsaɪˈpraɪəs/ |
| nolle prosequi |
not to prosecute |
A statement from the prosecution that they are voluntarily discontinuing (or will not initiate) prosecution of a matter. |
/ˈnɒliˈprɒsɪkwaɪ/ |
| nolo contendere |
I do not wish to argue |
A type of plea whereby the defendant neither admits nor denies the charge. Commonly interpreted as "No contest." |
/ˈnoʊloʊkɒnˈtɛndɪri/ |
| non adimpleti contractus |
of a non-completed contract |
In the case where a contract imposes specific obligations on both parties, one side cannot sue the other for failure to meet their obligations, if the plaintiff has not themselves met their own. |
|
| non compos mentis |
not in possession of [one's] mind |
Not having mental capacity to perform some legal act |
|
| non constat |
It is not certain. |
Refers to information given by one who is not supposed to give testimony, such as an attorney bringing up new information that did not come from a witness. Such information is typically nullified. |
|
| non est factum |
It is not [my] deed. |
A method whereby a signatory to a contract can invalidate it by showing that his signature to the contract was made unintentionally or without full understanding of the implications. |
|
| non est inventus |
He was not found. |
Reported by a sheriff on writ when the defendant cannot be found in his county or jurisdiction. |
|
| non liquet |
It is not clear. |
A type of verdict where positive guilt or innocence cannot be determined. Also called "not proven" in legal systems with such verdicts. |
|
| non obstante verdicto |
notwithstanding the verdict |
A circumstance where the judge may override the jury verdict and reverse or modify the decision. |
|
| novus actus interveniens |
a new action coming between |
A break in causation (and therefore probably liability) because something else has happened to remove the causal link. |
|
| noscitur a sociis |
It is known by the company it keeps. |
An ambiguous word or term can be clarified by considering the whole context in which it is used, without having to define the term itself. |
|
| nota bene |
note well |
A term used to direct the reader to cautionary or qualifying statements for the main text. |
|
| Nullum crimen sine lege |
No-one can face punishment except for an act that was criminalized before he performed the act |
|
|
| Nulla poena sine culpa |
no punishment without fault |
One cannot be punished for something that they are not guilty of. |
|
| nudum pactum |
naked promise |
An unenforceable promise, due to the absence of consideration or value exchanged for the promise. |
|
| nulla bona |
no goods |
Notation made when a defendant has no tangible property available to be seized in order to comply with a judgement. |
|
| nunc pro tunc |
now for then |
An action by a court to correct a previous procedural or clerical error. |
|
| obiter dictum |
a thing said in passing |
In law, an observation by a judge on some point of law not directly relevant to the case before him, and thus neither requiring his decision nor serving as a precedent, but nevertheless of persuasive authority. In general, any comment, remark or observation made in passing. |
|
| onus probandi |
|
Burden of proof. |
|
| ore tenus |
(evidence) presented orally |
|
|
| pace |
with peace |
Used to say 'contrary to the opinion of.' It is a polite way of marking a speaker's disagreement with someone or some body of thought. |
/ˈpɑːtʃeɪ/ |
| par delictum |
equal fault |
Used when both parties to a dispute are at fault. |
|
| parens patriae |
parent of the nation |
Refers to the power of the State to act as parent to a child when the legal parents are unable or unwilling. |
|
| pari passu |
on equal footing |
Equal ranking, equal priority (usually referring to creditors). |
|
| partus sequitur ventrem |
Offspring follows the belly |
Legal status of children of slaves is the same as their mother's. |
|
| pendente lite |
while the litigation is pending |
Court orders used to provide relief until the final judgement is rendered. Commonly used in divorce proceedings. The adverbial form of lis pendens (above). |
|
| per capita |
by head |
Dividing money up strictly and equally according to the number of beneficiaries |
|
| per contra |
by that against |
Legal shorthand for "in contrast to". |
|
| per curiam |
through the court |
A decision delivered by a multi-judge panel, such as an appellate court, in which the decision is said to be authored by the court itself, instead of situations where those individual judges supporting the decision are named. |
/ˌpɜːrˈkjuːriæm/ |
| per incuriam |
by their neglect |
A judgement given without reference to precedent. |
|
| per minas |
through threats |
Used as a defense, when illegal acts were performed under duress. |
|
| per proxima amici |
by or through the next friend |
Employed when an adult brings suit on behalf of a minor, who was unable to maintain an action on his own behalf at common law. |
|
| per quod |
by which |
Used in legal documents in the same sense as "whereby". A per quod statement is typically used to show that specific acts had consequences which form the basis for the legal action. |
|
| per se |
by itself |
Something that is, as a matter of law. |
|
| per stirpes |
by branch |
An estate of a decedent is distributed per stirpes, if each branch of the family is to receive an equal share of an estate. |
|
| periculum in mora |
danger in delay |
A condition given to support requests for urgent action, such as a protective order or restraining order. |
|
| persona non grata |
unwelcome person |
A person who is officially considered unwelcome by a host country in which they are residing in a diplomatic capacity. The person is typically expelled to their home country. |
/pərˈsoʊnənɒn ˈɡrɑːtə,pərˈsoʊnənɒn ˈɡreɪtə/ |
| posse comitatus |
power of the county |
A body of armed citizens pressed into service by legal authority, to keep the peace or pursue a fugitive. |
/ˈpɒsiˌkɒmɪˈteɪtəs/ |
| post hoc ergo propter hoc |
after this, therefore because of this |
A logical fallacy that suggests that an action causes an effect simply because the action occurred before the effect. |
|
| post mortem |
after death |
Refers to an autopsy, or as a qualification as to when some event occurred. |
|
| post mortem auctoris |
after the author's death |
Used in reference to intellectual property rights, which usually are based around the author's lifetime. |
|
| postliminium |
return from the other |
Refers to the return of legal standing and property of a person who returns to the jurisdiction of Rome |
|
| praetor peregrinus |
magistrate of foreigners |
The Roman praetor (magistrate) responsible for matters involving non-Romans. |
|
| prima facie |
at first face |
A matter that appears to be sufficiently based in the evidence as to be considered true. |
/ˈpraɪmə ˈfeɪʃii/ |
| pro bono |
for good |
Professional work done for free. |
/ˈproʊˈboʊnoʊ/ |
| pro bono publico |
for the public good |
|
/ˈproʊ ˈboʊnoʊˈpʌblɪkoʊ/ |
| pro forma |
as a matter of form |
Things done as formalities. |
|
| pro hac vice |
for this turn |
Refers to a lawyer who is allowed to participate (only) in a specific case, despite being in a jurisdiction in which he has not been generally admitted. |
|
| pro per |
abbreviation of propria persona, meaning "one's own person" |
Representing oneself, without counsel. Also known as pro serepresentation. |
|
| pro rata |
from the rate |
A calculation adjusted based on a proportional value relevant to the calculation. An example would be a tenant being charged a portion of a month's rent based on having lived there less than a full month. The amount charged would be proportional to the time occupied. |
|
| pro se |
for himself |
Representing oneself, without counsel. Also known as pro perrepresentation. |
/ˌproʊ ˈsiː,ˌproʊ ˈseɪ/ |
| pro tanto |
for so much |
A partial payment of an award or claim, based on the defendant's ability to pay. |
|
| pro tem |
abbreviation of pro tempore, meaning "for the time being" |
Something, such as an office held, that is temporary. |
|
| pro tempore |
for the time being |
Something, such as an office held, that is temporary. |
|
| propria persona |
proper person |
Refers to one representing themselves without the services of a lawyer. Also known as pro per representation. |
|
| qua |
which; as |
In the capacity of. |
|
| quae ipso usu consumuntur |
Consumed by the use itself |
Used in relation with objects whose purpose is to be consumed or destroyed. Examples include food, fuel, medicine, matches or money.[13] |
|
| quaeritur |
It is sought. |
The question is raised. Used to declare that a question is being asked in the following verbiage. |
|
| quaere |
query |
Used in legal drafts to call attention to some uncertainty or inconsistency in the material being cited. |
|
| quantum |
how much |
|
|
| quantum meruit |
as much as it deserves; as much as she or he has earned[10] |
In contract law, a quasi-contractual remedy that permits partial reasonable payment for an incomplete piece of work (services and/or materials), assessed proportionately, where no price is established when the request is made.[10]
In contract law, and in particular the requirement for consideration, if no fixed price is agreed upon for the service and/or materials, then one party would request a reasonable price for the said services and/or materials at the end of the job. A common example would be a plumber requested to fix a leak in the middle of the night.[10]
|
|
| quantum valebant |
as much as they were worth |
Under Common Law, a remedy to compute reasonable damages when a contract has been breached – the implied promise of payment of a reasonable price for goods.
In contract law, for requirements of consideration, reasonable worth for goods delivered.
Usage: quantum meruit has replaced quantum valebant in consideration;[10] in the case of contract remedy, quantum valebant is being used less, and could be considered obsolete. |
|
| quasi |
as if |
Resembling or being similar to something, without actually being that thing. |
|
| qui tam |
abbreviation of qui tam pro domino rege quam pro se ipso in hac parte sequitur, meaning "who pursues in this action as much for the king as himself". |
In a qui tam action, one who assists the prosecution of a case is entitled to a proportion of any fines or penalties assessed. |
|
| quid pro quo |
this for that |
An equal exchange of goods or services, or of money (or other consideration of equal value) for some goods or services. |
|
| quo ante |
as before |
Returning to a specific state of affairs which preceded some defined action. |
|
| quo warranto |
by what warrant |
A request made to someone exercising some power, to show by what legal right they are exercising that power. A type of writ. |
|
| quoad hoc |
as to this |
Used to mean "with respect to" some named thing, such as when stating what the law is in regards to that named thing. |
|
| R |
Rex or Regina |
King or Queen. In British cases, will see R v Freeman meaning Regina against Freeman. Changes with King or Queen on throne. |
|
| ratio decidendi |
reason for the decision |
The point in a legal proceeding, or the legal precedent so involved, which led to the final decision being what it was. |
|
| ratio scripta |
written reason |
The popular opinion of Roman law, held by those in the Medieval period. |
|
| rationae soli |
by reason of the soil |
"Certain rights may arise by virtue of ownership of the soil upon which wild animals are found."[7] |
|
| rebus sic stantibus |
things thus standing |
A qualification in a treaty or contract, that allows for nullification in the event fundamental circumstances change. |
|
| reddendo singula singulis |
referring solely to the last |
The canon of construction that in a list of items containing a qualifying phrase at the end, the qualifier refers only to the last item in the list. |
|
| res |
thing, matter, issue, affair |
|
|
| res communis |
common to all |
Property constructs like airspace and water rights are said to be res communis – that is, a thing common to all, and that could not be the subject of ownership. With airspace, the difficulty has been to identify where the fee simple holder's rights to the heavens end. Water is a bit more defined – it is common until captured.[7] |
|
| res derelictae |
abandoned goods |
Material property abandoned by its owner |
|
| res ipsa loquitur |
the thing speaks for itself |
The principle that the occurrence of an accident implies negligence. This principle allows the elements of duty of care, breach, and causation to be inferred from an injury that does not ordinarily occur without negligence. |
|
| res gestae |
a thing done |
Differing meaning depending on what type of law is involved. May refer to the complete act of a felony, from start to finish, or may refer to statements given that may be exempt from hearsay rules. |
|
| res judicata |
a matter judged |
A matter that has been finally adjudicated, meaning no further appeals or legal actions by the involved parties is now possible. |
/ˈriːzdʒuːdɪˈkeɪtə,ˈreɪz,dʒuːdɪˈkɑːtə/ |
| res nova |
a new thing |
A question of law on which no court has previously ruled, or a factual situation about which no court has previously ruled; a legal case without a precedent |
|
| res nullius |
nobody's thing |
Ownerless property or goods. Such property or goods are able and subject to being owned by anybody. |
|
| res publica |
public affair |
All things subject to concern by the citizenry. The root of the word republic. |
|
| respondeat superior |
Let the master answer. |
A concept that the master (e.g. employer) is responsible for the actions of his subordinates (e.g. employees). |
|
| scandalum magnatum |
scandal of the magnates |
Defamation against a peer in British law. Now repealed as a specific offense. |
|
| scienter |
knowingly |
Used when offenses or torts were committed with the full awareness of the one so committing. |
|
| scire facias |
Let them know. |
A writ, directing local officials to officially inform a party of official proceedings concerning them. |
|
| scire feci |
I have made known. |
The official response of the official serving a writ of scire facias, informing the court that the writ has been properly delivered. |
|
| secundum formam statuti |
According to the form of the statute. |
|
|
| se defendendo |
self-defense |
The act of defending one's own person or property, or the well-being or property of another. |
|
| seriatim |
in series |
Describes the process in which the court hears assorted matters in a specific order. Also refers to an occasion where a multiple-judge panel will issue individual opinions from the members, rather than a single ruling from the entire panel. |
|
| sine die |
without day |
Used when the court is adjourning without specifying a date to re-convene. See also adjournment sine die. |
|
| sine qua non |
without which, nothing |
Refers to some essential event or action, without which there can be no specified consequence. |
|
| situs |
the place |
Used to refer to laws specific to the location where specific property exists, or where an offense or tort was committed. |
|
| stare decisis |
to stand by [things] decided |
The obligation of a judge to stand by a prior precedent. |
/ˈsteɪridɪˈsaɪsɪs/ |
status quo
status quo ante
statu quo |
the state in which |
In contract law, in a case of innocent representation, the injured party is entitled to be replaced in statu quo. Note the common usage is status quo from the Latin status quo ante, the "state in which before" or "the state of affairs that existed previously."[10] |
|
| stratum |
a covering, from neuter past participle of sternere, to spread |
1) In property law, condominiums has said to occupy stratum many stories about the ground.[7]
2) Stratum can also be a societial level made up of individuals with similar status of social, cultural or economic nature.
3) Stratum can refer to classification in an organized system along the lines of layers, levels, divisions, or similar grouping. |
|
| sua sponte |
of its own accord |
Some action taken by the public prosecutor or another official body, without the prompting of a plaintiff or another party. (compare ex proprio motu, ex mero motu which are used for courts). |
|
| sub judice |
under the judge |
Refers to a matter currently being considered by the court. |
|
| sub modo |
subject to modification |
Term in contract law that allows limited modifications to a contract after the original form has been agreed to by all parties. |
|
| sub nomine |
under the name |
Abbreviated sub nom.; used in case citations to indicate that the official name of a case changed during the proceedings, usually after appeal (e.g., rev'd sub nom. and aff'd sub nom.) |
|
| sub silentio |
under silence |
A ruling, order, or other court action made without specifically stating the ruling, order, or action. The effect of the ruling or action is implied by related and subsequent actions, but not specifically stated. |
|
| subpoena |
under penalty |
A writ compelling testimony, the production of evidence, or some other action, under penalty for failure to do so. |
|
| subpoena ad testificandum |
under penalty to be witnessed |
An order compelling an entity to give oral testimony in a legal matter. |
|
| subpoena duces tecum |
bring with you under penalty |
An order compelling an entity to produce physical evidence or witness in a legal matter. |
|
| suggestio falsi |
false suggestion |
A false statement made in the negotiation of a contract. |
|
| sui generis |
of its own kind/genus |
Something that is unique amongst a group. |
|
| sui juris |
of his own right |
Refers to one legally competent to manage his own affairs. Also spelled sui iuris. |
|
| suo motu |
of its own motion |
Refers to a court or other official agency taking some action on its own accord (synonyms: ex proprio motu, ex mero motu). Similar to sua sponte. |
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| supersedeas |
refrain from |
A bond tendered by an appellant as surety to the court, requesting a delay of payment for awards or damages granted, pending the outcome of the appeal. |
|
| suppressio veri |
suppression of the truth |
Willful concealment of the truth when bound to reveal it, such as withholding details of damage from an auto accident from a prospective buyer of the car in that accident. |
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| supra |
above |
Used in citations to refer to a previously cited source. |
|
| terra nullius |
no one's land |
Land that has never been part of a sovereign state, or land which a sovereign state has relinquished claim to. |
|
| trial de novo |
trial anew |
A completely new trial of a matter previously judged. It specifically refers to a replacement trial for the previous one, and not an appeal of the previous decision. |
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| trinoda necessitas |
three-knotted need |
Refers to a threefold tax levied on Anglo-Saxon citizens to cover roads, buildings, and the military. |
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| uberrima fides |
most abundant faith |
Concept in contract law specifying that all parties must act with the utmost good faith. |
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| ubi eadem ratio, ibi idem jus |
where there is the same reason there is the same law;[14] like reason doth make like law.[15] |
See the judgment of Lord Holt CJ in Ashby v White. |
|
| ubi jus ibi remedium |
wherever a right exists there is also a remedy |
See the judgment of Lord Holt CJ in Ashby v White.[16][17] Some legal scholars find it reflected in the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.[18] |
|
| ultra vires |
beyond the powers |
An act that requires legal authority to perform, but which is done without obtaining that authority. |
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| universitas personarum |
totality of people |
Aggregate of people, body corporate, as in a college, corporation, or state |
|
| universitas rerum |
totality of things |
Aggregate of things. |
|
| uno flatu |
in one breath |
Used to criticize inconsistencies in speech or testimony, as in: one says one thing, and in the same breath, says another contradictory thing. |
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| uti possidetis |
as you possess |
Ancient concept regarding conflicts, wherein all property possessed by the parties at the conclusion of the conflict shall remain owned by those parties unless treaties to the contrary are enacted. |
|
| uxor |
wife |
Used in documents in place of the wife's name. Usually abbreviated et ux. |
|
| vel non |
or not |
Used when considering whether some event or situation is either present or it is not. |
|
| veto |
forbid |
The power of an executive to prevent an action, especially the enactment of legislation. |
|
| vice versa |
the other way around |
Something that is the same either way. |
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| vide |
see |
Used in citations to refer the reader to another location. |
|
| videlicet |
contraction of videre licet, meaning "it is permitted to see" |
Used in documents to mean "namely" or "that is". Usually abbreviated viz. |
|
| viz. |
abbreviation of videlicet |
Namely. |
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| vigilantibus non dormientibus iura subveniunt |
The laws benefit those who are vigilant rather than those who sleep. |
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