legal maxim

Term- sub judice Translation- under the judge Definition- Refers to a matter currently being considered by the court. Sub judice is a Latin term that means “under judgment” or “under consideration by a court of law.” In legal contexts, it refers to a case or matter that is currently pending before a court and is […]

Term- nunc pro tunc Translation- now for then Definition- An action by a court to correct a previous procedural or clerical error. Nunc pro tunc is a Latin term that means “now for then.” In legal contexts, it refers to the ability of a court to retroactively make an order or entry that is effective

Term- forum non conveniens Translation- Disagreeable forum Definition- A concept wherein a court refuses to hear a particular matter, citing a more appropriate forum for the issue to be decided. Forum non conveniens is a legal term that refers to a court’s power to decline jurisdiction over a case when another forum would be more

Term- Ceteris paribus Translation- With other things the same Definition- More commonly rendered in English as “All other things being equal” Ceteris paribus is a Latin term that means “all other things being equal” or “all other things held constant.” It is often used in economics and other social sciences to describe a situation where

Term- Caveat Translation- May he beware Definition- When used by itself, refers to a qualification, or warning. Caveat is a legal term that refers to a warning or cautionary statement. In legal contexts, a caveat can refer to several different things depending on the specific context. One common use of caveat is in the context

Term- animus revertendi Translation- intention to return Definition- “Wild animals, such as bees and homing pigeons, that by habit go ‘home’ to their possessor. Used when discussing ferae naturae.” Animus revertendi is a Latin term that refers to the intention to return. In legal terms, it is often used in the context of immigration law

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 of a crime. In order for a crime to have been committed,

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 “by what authority.” In legal terms, it refers to a legal action