Latin: Legal Phrases & Terms
Common Latin phrases used in law, courts, and legal writing.
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What is the meaning and legal context of 'habeas corpus' (pronounced: HAY-bee-us KOR-pus)?
Meaning 'you shall have the body,' it is a legal writ used to bring a prisoner before a court to determine if their imprisonment or detention is lawful.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'pro bono' (pronounced: proh BOH-noh)?
Meaning 'for the public good,' it refers to legal work undertaken voluntarily and without payment, typically for clients who cannot afford a lawyer.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'amicus curiae' (pronounced: uh-MEE-kus KYOOR-ee-eye)?
Meaning 'friend of the court,' it refers to an individual or group who is not a party to a case but offers information, expertise, or insight to assist the court in its decision.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'mens rea' (pronounced: MENZ RAY-uh)?
Meaning 'guilty mind,' it refers to the mental intent or state of mind of a person at the time they committed a crime, which is a necessary element for criminal liability.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'actus reus' (pronounced: AK-tus RAY-us)?
Meaning 'guilty act,' it refers to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a crime, as opposed to the mental intent to commit it.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'prima facie' (pronounced: PRY-muh FAY-shee)?
Meaning 'at first sight,' it refers to evidence that is sufficient to establish a fact or raise a presumption unless it is rebutted or disproved by contrary evidence.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'res judicata' (pronounced: RAYZ joo-dih-KAH-tuh)?
Meaning 'a matter judged,' it is a rule that prevents the same parties from relitigating a case or issue that has already been decided by a final judgment on the merits.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'subpoena' (pronounced: suh-PEE-nuh)?
Meaning 'under penalty,' it is a formal written order issued by a court requiring a person to appear as a witness or to produce documents for a legal proceeding.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'voir dire' (pronounced: VWAHR DEER)?
Meaning 'to speak the truth,' it is the preliminary examination of prospective jurors or witnesses by a judge or counsel to determine their suitability or competence.
What is the meaning and legal context of 'in absentia' (pronounced: in ab-SEN-shee-uh)?
Meaning 'in absence,' it refers to legal proceedings, such as a trial or sentencing, that take place while the defendant is not physically present in the courtroom.
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This deck contains 20 flashcards with a mix of difficulty levels: 6 easy, 10 medium, and 4 hard cards.
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