Latin Legal NOMENclature broken down, translated and explained

1. Ab Initio - From the Beginning

Translation: From the beginning

Definition: Used to describe a situation that is valid and binding from the start, or that has always been in effect.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "from the beginning".

2. Actus Reus - Guilty Act

Translation: Guilty act

Definition: A guilty act or omission that is the basis for criminal liability.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "guilty act".

3. Ad Litem - For the Suit

Translation: For the suit

Definition: Used to refer to a person appointed to represent another in a legal action.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "for the suit".

4. Ad Nauseam - To the Point of Nausea

Translation: To the point of nausea

Definition: Used to describe an action or argument that is repeated to the point of tedium or disgust.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "to the point of nausea".

5. Amicus Curiae - Friend of the Court

Translation: Friend of the court

Definition: A person or organization that is not a party to a case, but is permitted to offer information to the court that may help in deciding the case.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "friend of the court".

6. Caveat Emptor - Let the Buyer Beware

Translation: Let the buyer beware

Definition: A principle that the buyer, rather than the seller, is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before purchase.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "let the buyer beware".

7. Corpus Delicti - Body of the Crime

Translation: Body of the crime

Definition: The actual components of a crime that must be proven in order to establish guilt.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "body of the crime".

8. De Facto - In Fact

Translation: In fact

Definition: Used to describe a situation that is true in practice even if it is not officially recognized.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "in fact".

9. Ex Post Facto - After the Fact

Translation: After the fact

Definition: Used to describe laws or regulations that are applied retroactively.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "after the fact".

10. Habeas Corpus - You Have the Body

Translation: You have the body

Definition: A legal action used to bring a person before a court to determine if they are being detained lawfully.

Etymological Definition: Latin, "you have the body".