legal terminology

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 […]

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

Term- subpoena Translation- under penalty Definition- A writ compelling testimony, the production of evidence, or some other action, under penalty for failure to do so. A subpoena is a legal document that requires a person to appear in court or to produce evidence for a legal proceeding. The term “subpoena” comes from the Latin phrase

Term- in prope persona Translation- On one’s own person Definition- One who represents themselves in court without the [official] assistance of an attorney. “In propria persona” (sometimes abbreviated as “in pro per” or “pro se”) is a Latin term that means “in one’s own person.” In legal contexts, it refers to a situation where a

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