Most Used Legal Maxims, Translation and Meanings with easy explanation that everyone needs to know. Legal Maxim of the Day. These legal maxims are useful for lawyers, business owners, and more.
The law is often described as “a body of rules.” But in reality, the law is much broader than that. It includes principles, precedents, and maxims. Maxims are concise statements of general principles that apply to many situations. They’re also called “legal maxims” because they’re used by judges and lawyers to explain how the law works.
They will help you avoid common mistakes and pitfalls when dealing with contracts, negotiations, and other legal matters.
Here’s an example of a legal maxim: “The law favours the vigilant and not those who sleep upon their rights.” This means that people should take care to protect themselves against potential risks. If you do nothing, you might lose your right to sue someone else for damages.
Term-res publica Translation- public affair Definition- All things subject to concern by the citizenry. The root of the word republic. “Res publica” is a Latin term that means “public affairs” or “commonwealth.” It is a concept that originated in ancient Rome and was used to refer to the affairs of the state, the public good, […]
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Term- respondeat superior Translation- let the master answer Definition- A concept that the master (e.g. employer) is responsible for the actions of his subordinates (e.g. employees) “Respondeat superior” is a Latin term that means “let the master answer.” In legal contexts, it is a principle of vicarious liability that holds an employer or principal responsible
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Term- Audi alteram partem Translation- hear the other side Definition- Refers to the idea that one cannot be fairly judged unless the cases for and against them have been heard “Audi alteram partem” is a Latin term that means “hear the other side.” In legal contexts, it refers to the principle that a person should
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Term- ultra vires Translation- beyond the powers Definition-An act that requires legal authority to perform, but which is done without obtaining that authority. “Ultra vires” is a Latin term that means “beyond the powers.” In legal contexts, it refers to an action or decision that is beyond the legal authority or powers of the person
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Term- ratio decidendi Translation- Reason for the decision Definition- The point in a legal proceeding, or the legal precedent so involved, which led to the final decision being what it was. “Ratio decidendi” is a Latin term that means “the reason for the decision.” In legal contexts, it refers to the legal principle or rule
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Term- pro tanto Translation- for so much Definition- A partial payment of an award or claim, based on the defendant’s ability to pay. “Pro tanto” is a Latin term that means “for so much.” In legal contexts, it is used to indicate that something is valid or effective only to a certain extent or in
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Term- nolle prosequi Translation- Not to prosecute Definition- A statement from the prosecution that they are voluntarily discontinuing (or will not initiate) prosecution of a matter. “Nolle prosequi” is a Latin legal term that means “to be unwilling to pursue.” In the context of criminal law, it is a decision by a prosecutor or government
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Term- ad quod damnum Translation- according to the harm Definition- Used in tort law. Implies that the reward or penalty ought to correspond to the damage suffered or inflicted. “Ad quod damnum” is a Latin term that means “to what damage?” In legal contexts, it refers to the assessment of damages in a lawsuit, particularly
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