June 2021

Term- lis alibi pendens Translation- Lawsuit elsewhere pending Definition- 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 alibi pendens” is a Latin term that means “a case pending elsewhere.” It is a legal principle that […]

Term- prima facie Translation- at first face Definition- A matter that appears to be sufficiently based in the evidence as to be considered true. “Prima facie” is a Latin term that means “at first sight” or “on its face.” In a legal context, it refers to the initial appearance or impression of a case or

Term- mens rea Translation- Guilty mind Definition- 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. “Mens rea” is a Latin term that refers to

Term- amicus curiae Translation- friend of the court Definition- A person who offers information to a court regarding a case before it. “Amicus curiae” is a Latin term that means “friend of the court.” In a legal context, it refers to a person or organization that is not a party to a legal case but

Term- quid pro quo Translation- this for that Definition- An equal exchange of goods or services, or of money (or other consideration of equal value) for some goods or services. “Quid pro quo” is a Latin term that means “something for something” or “this for that”. In a legal context, it refers to a situation