Latin Terms
Term or phrase
Literal translation
Definition and use
English pronunciation
1
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/
2
from table and bed
Divorce a mensa et thoro indicates legal separation without legal divorce.
3
from later
An argument derived after an event, having the knowledge about the event. Inductive reasoning from observations and experiments.
4
from earlier
An argument derived before an event, without needing to have the knowledge about the event. Deductive reasoning from general principles.
5
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.
6
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.
7
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]
8
without this
"Presenting the negative portion of a plea when pleading at common by way a special traverse."[1]
9
guilty act
Part of what proves criminal liability (with mens rea).
10
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.
11
to collect the goods
12
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.
13
at the person
Attacking an opponent's character rather than answering his argument.
14
to the same thing
In agreement.
15
to infinity
To continue forever.
16
for the case
Describes those designated to represent parties deemed incapable of representing themselves, such as a child or incapacitated adult.
17
according to the harm
Used in tort law. Implies that the reward or penalty ought to correspond to the damage suffered or inflicted.
18
according to value
19
adjournment without a day
When an assembly adjourns without setting a date for its next meeting.
20
he has sworn
A formal statement of fact.
21
another I
A second identity living within a person.
22
friend of the court
A person who offers information to a court regarding a case before it.
23
animus contrahendi
contractual intent
Intention to contract.
24
intention to harm
The subjective state of mind of the author of a crime, with reference to the exact knowledge of illegal content of his behaviour, and of its possible consequences.
25
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)"[2]
26
intention to return
"Wild animals, such as bees and homing pigeons, that by habit go 'home' to their possessor. Used when discussing ferae naturae."[2]
27
before
“An antenuptial agreement is a contract between two people that is executed before marriage.”
28
for the sake of argument
29
in good faith
Implies sincere good intention regardless of outcome.
30
ownerless goods
31
the question falls
Indicates that a settlement to a dispute or issue has been reached, and the issue is now resolved.
32
case of war
The justification for acts of war.
33
May he beware
When used by itself, refers to a qualification, or warning.
34
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.
35
to be apprised
A type of writ seeking judicial review.
/ˌsɜːrʃiəˈreɪraɪ, ˌsɜːrʃiəˈreɪri/
36
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.[3]
37
with other things the same
More commonly rendered in English as "All other things being equal."
38
having command of mind
Of sound mind. Also used in the negative "Non compos mentis", meaning "Not of sound mind".
39
A condition without which it could not be
An indispensable and essential action, condition, or ingredient.
40
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[4] Also consensus in idem.
41
against
Used in case citations to indicate that the cited source directly contradicts the point being made.
42
against the law
Used when a court or tribunal hands down a decision that is contrary to the laws of the governing state.
43
contradiction in itself
A contradiction between parts of an argument.
44
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.
45
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.
46
body of the crime
A person cannot be convicted of a crime, unless it can be proven that the crime was even committed.
47
body of law
The complete collection of laws of a particular jurisdiction or court.
48
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.
49
body of the law of nations
The complete collection of international law.
50
An encyclopedia of US law drawn from US Federal and State court decisions.
51
crime of falsifying
52
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.
53
the court wishes to consider
Signifies the intent of a court to consider the points of law argued during advocacy, prior to judgement.
54
carrying goods away
Specifies that larceny was taking place in addition to any other crime named. E.g. "trespass de bonis asportatis".
55
warring down
Complete annihilation of a warring party, bringing about the end of the conflict.
56
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.
57
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.
58
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.
59
concerning the future
At a future date.
60
concerning the whole
Often used to mean "start it all over", in the context of "repeat de integro".
61
according to law
Literally "from law"; something that is established in law, whether or not it is true in general practice. Cf. de facto.
62
of the law as it should be
Used in the context of "how the law should be", such as for proposed legislation.
63
of the law as it is
Concerning the law as it exists, without consideration of how things should be.
64
about the smallest things
Various legal areas concerning small amounts or small degrees.
65
Of the dead, [speak] nothing unless good
Social convention that it is inappropriate to speak ill of the recently deceased, even if they were an enemy.
66
anew
Often used in the context of "trial de novo" – a new trial ordered when the previous one failed to reach a conclusion.
67
deorum injuriae diis curae
The gods take care of injuries to the gods
Blasphemy is a crime against the State, rather than against God.
68
(thing) said
A statement given some weight or consideration due to the respect given the person making it.
69
incapable of guilt
Presumption that young children or persons with diminished mental capacity cannot form the intent to commit a crime.
70
Specific deceit
Heavily used in the context of genocide in international law.
71
domitae naturae
tame by nature
Tame or domesticated animal. Also called mansuetae naturae. Opposite of ferae naturae (below)
72
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."[2]
73
persons of the drama
74
bring with you
A "subpoena duces tecum" is a summons to produce physical evidence for a trial.
75
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.
76
by that name
77
towards all
Refers to rights or obligations that are owed towards all.
78
therefore
79
having been made in error
80
and others
Abbreviation of et alii, meaning "and others".
81
and other things
Generally used in the sense of "and so forth".
82
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.
83
and wife
Usually used instead of naming a man's wife as a party in a case.
84
and husband
Usually used instead of naming a woman's husband as a party in a case.
85
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.
86
of before
Essentially meaning "before the event", usually used when forecasting future events.
87
from the chair
Where chair refers to authority or position. Authority derived from one's position.
88
from what has been conceded already
Also known as "argument from commitment", a type of valid ad hominem argument.
89
from a transgression
The consequence of a crime or tort.
90
from a transgression
part of the title of the old action of ejectment
Jones v. Doe ex dem. Smith
91
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.
92
good business norms
93
by favor
Something done voluntarily and with no expectation of a legal liability arising therefrom.
94
from the office
Something done or realized by the fact of holding an office or position.
95
from [for] one party
A decision reached, or case brought, by or for one party without the other party being present.
96
from after
Based on knowledge of the past.
97
from a thing done afterward
Commonly said as "after the fact."
98
A retroactive law. E.g. a law that makes illegal an act that was not illegal when it was done.
99
by [one's] own motion
Commonly spoken as "by one's own accord."
100
[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").
101
for the sake of example
Usually abbreviated "e.g.".
102
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.
103
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.
104
existing
Refers to things that are currently existing at a given point, rather than things that are no longer so.
105
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.
106
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.
107
favor of the contract
A concept in treaty law that prefers the maintaining of a contract over letting it expire for purely procedural reasons.
108
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.
109
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).
110
Let it be done.
A warrant issued by a judge for some legal proceedings.
111
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.
112
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' "
113
disagreeable forum
A concept wherein a court refuses to hear a particular matter, citing a more appropriate forum for the issue to be decided.
114
smoke of a good right
Refers to having a sufficient legal basis to bring legal action.
115
having performed his office
A person, court, statute, or legal document that has no legal authority, because its original legal purpose has been fulfilled.
116
things weighing down
The basic element or complaint of a lawsuit.
117
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.
118
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.
119
enemy of the human race
A party considered to be the enemy of all nations, such as maritime pirates.
120
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.
121
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.
122
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.
123
in the chamber
Conducted in private, or in secret. The opposite of in open court.
124
in court
Conducted in open court. The opposite of in camera.
125
in existence
Actually existing in reality. Opposite of in posse.
126
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.
127
in the extreme
In extreme circumstances. Often used to refer to "at the point of death."
128
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.
129
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.
130
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.
131
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.
132
at the threshold
A motion to a judge in a case that is heard and considered outside the presence of the jury.
133
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.
134
in the milder
A type of retroactive law that decriminalizes offenses committed in the past. Also known as an amnesty law.
135
in all
Used to mean "in every respect." Something applying to every aspect of a situation.
136
in equal offense
Used when both parties to a case are equally at fault.
137
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.
138
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.
139
in full
140
on one's own person
One who represents themselves in court without the [official] assistance of an attorney.
141
in one's own proper person
Alternate form of in prope persona. One who represents themselves in court without the [official] assistance of an attorney.
142
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).
143
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.
144
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.
145
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.
146
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.
147
in total
148
indications
Often used in copyright notices. Refers to distinctive markings that identify a piece of intellectual property.
149
below or under
150
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.[5]
151
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.
152
among others
Used to indicate an item cited has been pulled from a larger or more complete list.
153
among rustics
Refers to contract, debts, or other agreements made between parties who are not legal professionals.
154
amongst themselves
Refers to obligations between members of the same group or party, differentiated from the whole party's obligations to another party.
155
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.
156
within
157
within the jaws of the land
This term refers to a nation's territorial waters.
158
within the law
Used in various contexts to refer to the legal foundation for a thing.
159
within the powers
Something done which requires legal authority, and the act is performed accordingly. Cf. ultra vires.
160
He himself said it.
An assertion given undue weight solely by virtue of the person making the assertion.
161
the very words
Referring to a document or ruling that is being quoted by another.
162
by the fact itself
Used in the context that one event is a direct and immediate consequence of another. "In and of itself."
163
the law itself
164
(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.
165
law, right
Essentially: law.
166
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.[2]
167
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.
168
civil law
A codified set of laws concerning citizenry, and how the laws apply to them.
169
compelling law
Internationally agreed laws that bear no deviation, and do not require treaties to be in effect. An example is law prohibiting genocide.
170
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.
171
law in war
Laws governing the conduct of parties in war.
172
law between the peoples
Laws governing treaties and international agreements.
173
natural law
Laws common to all people, that the average person would find reasonable, regardless of their nationality.
174
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.
175
right of blood
Social law concept wherein citizenship of a nation is determined by having one or both parents being citizens.
176
right of soil
Social law concept wherein citizenship of a nation is determined by place of birth.
177
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.
178
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.
179
common law
Alternate form of jus commune. Refers to common facets of civil law that underlie all aspects of the law.
180
lex fori
the law of the country in which an action is brought out
181
the law borne
The law as it has been enacted.
182
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.
183
written law
Law that specifically codifies something, as opposed to common law or customary law.
184
free veto
An aspect of a unanimous voting system, whereby any member can end discussion on a proposed law.
185
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.
186
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.
187
suit pending
Often used in the context of public announcements of legal proceedings to come. Compare pendente lite (below).
188
place
189
place of the crime
Shorthand version of Lex locus delcti commissi. The "scene of the crime".
190
the place in which
The location where a cause of action arose.
191
place of repentance
When one party withdraws from a contract before all parties are bound.
192
place of standing
The right of a party to appear and be heard before a court.
193
(in) bad faith
A condition of being fraudulent or deceptive in act or belief.
194
wrong in itself
Something considered a universal wrong or evil, regardless of the system of laws in effect.
195
prohibited wrong
Something wrong or illegal by virtue of it being expressly prohibited, that might not otherwise be so.
196
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.
197
closed sea
A body of water under the jurisdiction of a state or nation, to which access is not permitted, or is tightly regulated.
198
open sea
A body of water open to all. Typically a synonym for International Waters, or in other legal parlance, the "High Seas".
199
through my fault
An acknowledgement of wrongdoing.
200
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.
201
manner of operation
A person's particular way of doing things. Used when using behavioral analysis while investigating a crime. Often abbreviated "M.O."
/ˈmoʊdəs ɒpəˈrændaɪ, ˈmoʊdəs ɒpəˈrændi/
202
in contemplation of death
Gift or trust that is made in contemplation of death.
203
custom for law
That which is the usual custom has the force of law.
204
motion at the start
Motions offered at the start of a trial, often to suppress or pre-allow certain evidence or testimony.
205
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.
206
let him not exit [the republic]
Shortened version of ne exeat repiblica: "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.
207
Nemo debet bis vexari (pro una et eadem causa)
"no-one should be tried twice (in respect to the same matter)"
It is a principle of double jeopardy (autrefois acquit) where a person should not be tried twice on the same matter.
208
"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.
209
He says nothing.
A judgement rendered in the absence of a plea, or in the event one party refuses to cooperate in the proceedings.
210
unless
A decree that does not enter into force unless some other specified condition is met.
211
unless first
Refers to the court of original jurisdiction in a given matter.
212
not to prosecute
A statement from the prosecution that they are voluntarily discontinuing (or will not initiate) prosecution of a matter.
213
I do not wish to dispute
A type of plea whereby the defendant neither admits nor denies the charge. Commonly interpreted as "No contest."
214
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.
215
not in possession of [one's] mind
Not having mental capacity to perform some legal act
216
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.
217
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.
218
He is not found.
Reported by a sheriff on writ when the defendant cannot be found in his county or jurisdiction.
219
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.
220
notwithstanding the verdict
A circumstance where the judge may override the jury verdict and reverse or modify the decision.
221
a new action coming between
A break in causation (and therefore probably liability) because something else has happened to remove the causal link.
222
It is known by friends.
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.
223
note well
A term used to direct the reader to cautionary or qualifying statements for the main text.
224
naked promise
An unenforceable promise, due to the absence of consideration or value exchanged for the promise.
225
no goods
Notation made when a defendant has no tangible property available to be seized in order to comply with a judgement.
226
now for then
An action by a court to correct a previous procedural or clerical error.
227
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.
228
onus probandi
229
(evidence) presented orally
230
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.
231
equal fault
Used when both parties to a dispute are at fault.
232
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.
233
pari passu
on equal footing
Equal ranking, equal priority (usually referring to creditors).
234
That which is brought forth follows the belly
Legal status of children of slaves
235
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).
236
by head
Dividing money up strictly and equally according to the number of beneficiaries
237
by that against
Legal shorthand for "in contrast to".
238
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.
239
by their neglect
A judgement given without reference to precedent.
240
through threats
Used as a defense, when illegal acts were performed under duress.
241
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.
242
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.
243
by itself
Something that is, as a matter of law.
244
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.
245
danger in delay
A condition given to support requests for urgent action, such as a protective order or restraining order.
246
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.
/pərˈsoʊnə nɒn ˈɡrɑːtə, pərˈsoʊnə nɒn ˈɡreɪtə/
247
power of the county
A body of armed citizens pressed into service by legal authority, to keep the peace or pursue a fugitive.
248
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.
249
after death
Refers to an autopsy, or as a qualification as to when some event occurred.
250
after the author's death
Used in reference to intellectual property rights, which usually are based around the author's lifetime.
251
return from the other
Refers to the return of legal standing and property of a person who returns to the jurisdiction of Rome
252
magistrate of foreigners
The Roman praetor (magistrate) responsible for matters involving non-Romans.
253
at first face
A matter that appears to be sufficiently based in the evidence as to be considered true.
254
for good
Professional work done for free.
255
for the public good
256
as a matter of form
Things done as formalities.
257
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.
258
abbreviation of propria persona, meaning "one's own person"
Representing oneself, without counsel. Also known as pro se representation.
259
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.
260
for himself
Representing oneself, without counsel. Also known as pro per representation.
261
for so much
A partial payment of an award or claim, based on the defendant's ability to pay.
262
abbreviation of pro tempore, meaning "for the time being"
Something, such as an office held, that is temporary.
263
for the time being
Something, such as an office held, that is temporary.
264
proper person
Refers to one representing themselves without the services of a lawyer. Also known as pro per representation.
265
which; as
In the capacity of.
266
quaeritur
It is sought.
The question is raised. Used to declare that a question is being asked in the following verbiage.
267
query
Used in legal drafts to call attention to some uncertainty or inconsistency in the material being cited.
268
how much
269
as much as it deserves; as much as she or he has earned[4]
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.[4]
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.[4]
270
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;[4] in the case of contract remedy, quantum valebant is being used less, and could be considered obsolete.
271
as if
Resembling or being similar to something, without actually being that thing.
272
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.
273
this for that
An equal exchange of goods or services, or of money (or other consideration of equal value) for some goods or services.
274
quo ante
as before
Returning to a specific state of affairs which preceded some defined action.
275
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.
276
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.
277
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.
278
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.
279
written reason
The popular opinion of Roman law, held by those in the Medieval period.
280
by reason of the soil
"Certain rights may arise by virtue of ownership of the soil upon which wild animals are found."[2]
281
things thus standing
A qualification in a treaty or contract, that allows for nullification in the event fundamental circumstances change.
282
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.
283
res
thing, matter, issue, affair
284
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.[2]
285
abandoned goods
Material property abandoned by its owner
286
things 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.
287
a matter judged
A matter that has been finally adjudicated, meaning no further appeals or legal actions by the involved parties is now possible.
/ˈriːz dʒuːdɪˈkeɪtə, ˈreɪz, dʒuːdɪˈkɑːtə/
288
nobody's thing
Ownerless property or goods. Such property or goods are able and subject to being owned by anybody.
289
public affair
All things subject to concern by the citizenry. The root of the word republic.
290
Let the master answer.
A concept that the master (e.g. employer) is responsible for the actions of his subordinates (e.g. employees).
291
scandal of the magnates
Defamation against a peer in British law. Now repealed as a specific offense.
292
knowingly
Used when offenses or torts were committed with the full awareness of the one so committing.
293
Let them know.
A writ, directing local officials to officially inform a party of official proceedings concerning them.
294
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.
295
According to the form of the statute.
296
self-defense
The act of defending one's own person or property, or the well-being or property of another.
297
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.
298
without day
Used when the court is adjourning without specifying a date to re-convene. See also adjournment sine die.
299
without which, nothing
Refers to some essential event or action, without which there can be no specified consequence.
300
the place
Used to refer to laws specific to the location where specific property exists, or where an offense or tort was committed.
301
to stand by [things] decided
The obligation of a judge to stand by a prior precedent.
302
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."[4]
303
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.[2]
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.
304
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).
305
under the judge
Refers to a matter currently being considered by the court.
306
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.
307
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.)
308
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.
309
under penalty
A writ compelling testimony, the production of evidence, or some other action, under penalty for failure to do so.
310
under penalty to be witnessed
An order compelling an entity to give oral testimony in a legal matter.
311
bring with you under penalty
An order compelling an entity to produce physical evidence or witness in a legal matter.
312
suggestio falsi
false suggestion
A false statement made in the negotiation of a contract.
313
of its own kind/genus
Something that is unique amongst a group.
314
of his own right
Refers to one legally competent to manage his own affairs. Also spelled sui iuris.
315
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.
316
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.
317
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.
318
above
Used in citations to refer to a previously cited source.
319
no one's land
Land that has never been part of a sovereign state, or land which a sovereign state has relinquished claim to.
320
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.
321
three-knotted need
Refers to a threefold tax levied on Anglo-Saxon citizens to cover roads, buildings, and the military.
322
most abundant faith
Concept in contract law specifying that all parties must act with the utmost good faith.
323
where there is the same reason there is the same law;[6] like reason doth make like law.[7]
See the judgment of Lord Holt CJ in Ashby v White.
324
beyond the powers
An act that requires legal authority to perform, but which is done without obtaining that authority.
325
universitas personarum
totality of people
Aggregate of people, body corporate, as in a college, corporation, or state
326
universitas rerum
totality of things
Aggregate of things.
327
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.
328
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.
329
wife
Used in documents in place of the wife's name. Usually abbreviated et ux.
330
or not
Used when considering whether some event or situation is either present or it is not.
331
forbid
The power of an executive to prevent an action, especially the enactment of legislation.
332
the other way around
Something that is the same either way.
333
see
Used in citations to refer the reader to another location.
334
contraction of videre licet, meaning "it is permitted to see"
Used in documents to mean "namely" or "that is". Usually abbreviated viz.
335
Namely.
A crime never dies
nullum tempus aut locus occurrit regi
Criminal Trial – “A crime never dies” in light of maxim “nullum tempus aut locus occurrit regi” i.e. time lapse is no bar to take cognizance. (201) PLR 098
Act which is void ab initio can never hold good with the efflux of time.
Quad initio vitionism est non protest tractu temporis convales cere