Glossary
Glossary of US Legal Terms A-D
A Abatement: The suspension or termination of legal proceedings due to the death of a party, procedural defect, or other event occurring before trial or judgment. In tort law, abatement may also refer …
Glossary of US Legal Terms E-H
E Easement: A legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose, such as a right of way. Easements are nonpossessory interests in land, meaning the easement holder does not own the …
Glossary of US Legal Terms I-L
I Impeachment: The process of charging a public official with misconduct, potentially leading to removal from office, or the act of attacking a witness’s credibility. The House of …
Glossary of US Legal Terms M-P
M Magistrate judge: A federal judicial officer who assists district judges with pretrial matters, motions, and other specified duties. Magistrate judges are appointed by district judges and serve …
Glossary of US Legal Terms Q-T
Q Quantum meruit: A Latin term meaning “as much as he deserves,” a quasi-contractual remedy for the reasonable value of services rendered when no express contract exists. Quantum meruit …
Glossary of US Legal Terms U-Z
U Ultra vires: A Latin term meaning “beyond the powers,” referring to acts that exceed legal authority. Ultra vires acts by corporations are void and unenforceable. The doctrine limits the …