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Term- actus reus Translation- guilty act Definition- Part of what proves criminal liability (with mens rea) Actus reus is a Latin term that translates to “guilty act.” It is a fundamental concept in criminal law and refers to the physical or external element…

Term- quo warranto Translation- by what warrant? Definition- A request made to someone exercising some power, to show by what legal right they are exercising that power. A type of writ. “Quo warranto” is a Latin term that means “by what warrant” or…

Term- consensus ad idem Translation- Agreement to the same Definition- Parties must be of one mind and their promises must relate to the subject or object “Consensus ad idem” is a Latin term that means “agreement to the same thing.” In legal terms,…

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…

Term- Habeas Corpus Translation- May you have the body Definition- 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. Habeas Corpus…

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,…