Glossary – AT Terms

Definitions

(adv.) Refers to a person who is at liberty and not confined or in custody, often after escaping or pending arrest.
The suspect is still at large despite extensive search efforts.
(adj.) Describes a representative elected by an entire electorate rather than by subdivisions or districts.
The city council includes several at large members representing the whole city.

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at large

Related terms

Commentary

Use context to determine whether 'at large' refers to freedom from custody or to an electoral method; clarity in legal drafting avoids ambiguity.

Definitions

(n.) An electoral system in which representatives are elected by the entire voting population of a political entity rather than from subdivisions or districts.
The city council adopted an at-large election system to ensure representatives serve the interests of all residents.
(n.) A method of election that can affect minority representation, often scrutinized under voting rights laws.
At-large elections have been challenged as diluting minority voting power under the Voting Rights Act.

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at-large election
at-large elections

Related terms

voting rights

Commentary

At-large elections often raise legal issues regarding fair representation and compliance with anti-discrimination laws, important in redistricting and election law contexts.

Definitions

(n.) Positions on a governing body filled by representatives elected by the entire electorate rather than from subdivisions or districts.
The city council includes several at-large seats elected by all voters in the municipality.

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at-large seats
at-large seat

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Commentary

At-large seats often affect representation balance and are subject to legal scrutiny under electoral fairness doctrines.

Definitions

(n.) An adult person who, due to factors such as age, disability, mental or physical condition, or environmental circumstances, is vulnerable to harm, neglect, or exploitation.
The law mandates reporting if you suspect abuse of an at-risk adult.

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at-risk adult
at-risk adults

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Commentary

The term is often defined by statute and varies by jurisdiction; careful reference to local law is essential when drafting or litigating regarding at-risk adults.

Definitions

(n.) An employment relationship in which either party may terminate the contract at any time without cause or notice, subject to legal exceptions.
In most U.S. states, employees work under at-will employment unless there is a contract stating otherwise.

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at-will employment

Related terms

Commentary

At-will employment is the default in many U.S. jurisdictions and often requires explicit exceptions to override; drafting should clarify termination rights to avoid disputes.

Definitions

(n.) A type of employment arrangement allowing either party to terminate the contract at any time without cause or prior notice, subject to legal exceptions.
The employer exercised its right of at-will termination by dismissing the employee without providing a reason.

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at-will termination

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Commentary

At-will termination is the default employment rule in many U.S. states, but exceptions such as discrimination laws and implied contracts may limit its application.

Definitions

(n.) A person who is trained or skilled in physical sports or exercises, often appearing in contexts related to sports law, contracts, endorsements, and liability issues.
The athlete signed a contract with the sports agency.

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athlete
athletes

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Commentary

In legal contexts, 'athlete' is often relevant in contract negotiations, liability claims, and regulatory compliance within sports law.

Definitions

(n.) A record maintained by anti-doping authorities tracking an athlete's biological markers over time to detect doping violations.
The athlete biological passport revealed abnormal blood values indicating possible doping.

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athlete biological passport
athlete biological passports

Related terms

Commentary

This term is primarily used in sports law and anti-doping regulations to establish evidence of doping without detecting specific banned substances.

Definitions

(n.) Adherence of an athlete to legal and regulatory requirements set by sports governing bodies or contracts.
The athlete's compliance with doping regulations is essential to maintain eligibility.

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athlete compliance
athlete compliances

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Commentary

This term typically involves monitoring and enforcement actions to ensure athletes meet contractual and regulatory obligations in sports contexts.

Definitions

(n.) Legally binding agreements between athletes and sports organizations governing terms of employment, conduct, compensation, and obligations.
The athlete contracts include clauses on performance bonuses and injury protocols.

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athlete contracts
athlete contract

Related terms

Commentary

Typically drafted to address unique aspects of athletic performance and career duration; clarity on injury and termination provisions is crucial.

Definitions

(n.) The legal and regulatory qualifications an athlete must meet to participate in a sport or competition.
The athlete eligibility rules disqualified him from competing due to his professional status.

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athlete eligibility

Related terms

Commentary

Athlete eligibility often hinges on compliance with governing body regulations and can vary significantly by jurisdiction and type of competition.

Definitions

(n.) The legal recognition and classification of an individual as an athlete, often affecting eligibility, rights, and obligations under sports law and regulatory frameworks.
The athlete status determination was crucial for eligibility to compete in the international tournament.

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athlete status

Related terms

Commentary

Legal contexts use athlete status to define eligibility and regulatory boundaries, often influencing eligibility rules, anti-doping regulations, and contractual obligations in sports law.

Definitions

(n.) The adherence to rules and regulations governing collegiate and professional athletic programs to ensure ethical conduct and eligibility.
The university's athletic compliance department monitors recruiting practices to avoid NCAA violations.

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athletic compliance

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Commentary

In legal drafting, athletic compliance typically focuses on regulatory adherence in educational or professional sports contexts, emphasizing monitoring and enforcement to prevent infractions.

Definitions

(n.) The status determining a student-athlete's lawful qualification to participate in school or collegiate sports as prescribed by governing athletic associations or institutional regulations.
The university reviewed his academic records to confirm his athletic eligibility for the upcoming season.

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athletic eligibility

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Commentary

Athletic eligibility often involves compliance with academic, amateur status, and behavioral standards set by athletic associations; precise definitions can vary by jurisdiction and governing body.

Definitions

(n.) A grant or financial aid awarded to a student athlete to support their education in exchange for participation in sports.
The university offered him an athletic scholarship to play football while covering his tuition fees.

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athletic scholarship

Related terms

Commentary

Ensure clarity about the conditions tied to athletic scholarships, particularly relating to eligibility and compliance with governing sports bodies.

Definitions

(n.) Automated Teller Machine, a device that enables banking transactions without human teller assistance.
She withdrew cash from the ATM near the courthouse.

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Related terms

electronic funds transfer

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'ATM' primarily refers to banking devices regulated under financial and consumer protection laws.

Definitions

(n.) A network of automated teller machines enabling customers to perform banking transactions electronically.
The bank expanded its ATM network to provide customers with wider access to cash withdrawals and deposits.

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atm network
atm networks

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Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify regulatory obligations associated with ATM networks, especially regarding consumer protection and data security.

Definitions

(n.) The surrounding physical air or gaseous envelope, relevant in environmental law contexts such as pollution regulation.
The factory was fined for emitting harmful substances into the atmosphere.
(n.) The mood or tone of a legal environment or proceeding that affects perception or interpretation.
The tense atmosphere in the courtroom influenced the jury's deliberations.

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atmosphere
atmospheres

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Commentary

In legal usage, 'atmosphere' primarily pertains to environmental contexts but can also metaphorically describe the prevailing mood or conditions influencing legal processes.

Definitions

(n.) The introduction of harmful substances into the earth's atmosphere, regulated under environmental law to protect health and ecosystems.
The company was fined for violating atmospheric pollution standards set by federal law.

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atmospheric pollution

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Commentary

Legal definitions often hinge on statutory or regulatory standards defining permissible pollutant levels and enforcement mechanisms.

Definitions

(n.) Energy released during nuclear fission or fusion, regulated under international and national nuclear law.
The treaty limits the use of atomic energy to peaceful purposes.

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atomic energy

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Commentary

Often governed by specific statutes and international agreements due to its dual-use nature and safety concerns.

Definitions

(n.) A United States federal law enacted in 1954 governing the development, regulation, and control of nuclear energy and materials for civilian and military purposes.
The Atomic Energy Act sets forth the legal framework for nuclear safety and security.

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atomic energy act

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Commentary

Commonly referenced in contexts involving nuclear regulation and energy policy; distinguish from later amendments and related statutes for precise legal application.

Definitions

(n.) A former U.S. federal agency established to oversee nuclear energy development and regulation, active from 1946 to 1974.
The Atomic Energy Commission was responsible for nuclear weapons development and civilian nuclear power regulation.

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atomic energy commission
atomic energy commissions

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Commentary

The Atomic Energy Commission was succeeded by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; references to AEC usually appear in historical or regulatory contexts related to nuclear energy.

Definitions

(n.) A body of law regulating the use, control, and safety of atomic energy and nuclear materials.
The Atomic Energy Law mandates strict safety protocols for nuclear facilities.

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atomic energy law

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Commentary

Often encompasses regulations on peaceful uses and non-proliferation aspects; drafting typically requires precise definitions of controlled materials and activities.

Definitions

(n.) The body of laws, regulations, and legal frameworks governing the peaceful use, safety, security, and control of atomic energy and nuclear materials.
The agency is responsible for enforcing atomic energy regulation to ensure nuclear safety.

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atomic energy regulation

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Commentary

Typically involves both national statutes and international agreements aiming at regulating nuclear technology use and preventing hazards.

Definitions

(n.) An international agreement governing the use, regulation, and control of atomic energy, typically to promote peaceful applications and prevent proliferation of nuclear weapons.
The Atomic Energy Treaty establishes strict guidelines for nations to handle nuclear materials responsibly.

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atomic energy treaty
atomic energy treaties

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Commentary

Often synonymous with specific treaties like the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons; precise scope and obligations depend on the particular treaty text.

Definitions

(n.) The act of making amends or reparation for a wrong or injury in legal or moral contexts.
The contract included provisions for atonement in case of breach.

Related terms

Commentary

In legal drafting, atonement often appears in contexts addressing reparative obligations or contractual breaches requiring restitution.

Definitions

(n.) An extremely cruel or brutal act, often involving physical violence, usually committed during armed conflict and considered a serious violation of international law.
The tribunal prosecuted the general for war atrocities committed against civilians.
(n.) A grossly wicked or reprehensible act or circumstance, not limited to war crimes but including severe violations of human rights.
The government condemned the atrocity of systematic torture revealed in the report.

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atrocities

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Commentary

In legal contexts, atrocity often denotes acts qualifying as war crimes or crimes against humanity; precision is essential to distinguish from general moral condemnation.

Definitions

(v.) To legally seize or take possession of property, usually to secure a creditor's claim prior to judgment.
The court ordered the sheriff to attach the debtor's assets to satisfy the outstanding judgment.
(v.) To fasten or affix a document or item to another, making it part of an official record or filing.
The plaintiff attached the relevant contracts to the complaint.

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attaches
attached
attaching

Related terms

Commentary

In legal contexts, "attach" often refers specifically to a pre-judgment process of seizing property; careful distinction should be made from the general sense of affixing documents.

Definitions

(n.) A legal process by which a court seizes a defendant's property to secure a judgment.
The creditor sought an attachment of the debtor's assets to satisfy the claim.
(n.) The act of affixing a document or item to another as part of legal evidence or proceedings.
The contract included several attachments detailing the specifications.

Related terms

Commentary

Attachment as a legal term primarily refers to a court-ordered seizure of property but can also mean an item physically or legally appended to a document; clarity depends on context.

Definitions

(n.) A legal claim or hold on property to secure the payment of a debt or performance of some obligation, imposed through a court order before a judgment is rendered.
The creditor obtained an attachment lien on the debtor's vehicle to secure repayment.

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attachment lien

Related terms

Commentary

Attachment liens are typically provisional and require court involvement; drafters should specify the scope and conditions under which the lien arises.

Definitions

(n.) An aggressive act or series of acts intended to harm or violate another's rights or property, often giving rise to legal liability.
The plaintiff claimed damages for the attack on his property.
(n.) A formal challenge to a legal argument, testimony, or evidence presented by the opposing party.
The attorney's attack on the witness's credibility was effective.
(v.) To initiate aggressive action or challenge legally or physically against another party.
The defendant attacked the validity of the contract in court.

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attacks
attacked
attacking

Related terms

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'attack' may refer to both physical aggression and to challenges against legal positions; clarity depends on context.

Definitions

(n.) An act done with intent to commit a crime but falling short of completing it.
He was charged with attempted robbery after being caught before entering the bank.
(v.) To try or endeavor to commit a criminal act but fail to complete it.
She attempted to hack into the company's secure database but was stopped.

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attempts
attempted
attempting

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Commentary

In criminal law, 'attempt' requires both intent to commit the offense and a substantial step toward its commission; mere preparation is generally insufficient.

Definitions

(n.) An unsuccessful try to carry out an assault, involving intent and a direct act toward causing harm or offensive contact, but falling short of completion.
The defendant was charged with attempted assault after raising his fist to strike but missing the victim.

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attempted assaults

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Commentary

Attempted assault requires both intent to commit assault and a substantial step toward its commission; mere preparation is insufficient.

Definitions

(n.) An offense in which a person intends to commit a crime and takes a substantial step toward its commission, but ultimately fails to complete it.
He was charged with attempted crime when he was caught trying to break into the house.

Related terms

Commentary

The term is used to distinguish between crimes actually completed and those only planned or partially executed; proof of a substantial step toward the crime is essential.

Definitions

(v.) To be present at a legal proceeding, meeting, or event.
The witness was required to attend the court hearing.
(v.) To take care of or give attention to legal matters or clients.
The attorney will attend to the client's case promptly.

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attends
attended
attending

Related terms

Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify whether 'attend' means physical presence or obligation to manage a matter to avoid ambiguity.

Definitions

(n.) The presence of a person at a legal proceeding or official meeting.
The attendance of all witnesses was mandatory at the hearing.
(n.) The act or fact of being present at a place, especially in relation to legal duties or obligations.
Failure to ensure attendance may result in contempt of court.

Related terms

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'attendance' often implicates compliance with compulsory appearance orders or participation requirements; clarity is important to differentiate from general presence.

Definitions

(n.) Statutes requiring individuals, typically children or students, to attend school or other mandated sessions regularly.
The state enforced attendance laws to ensure all children received compulsory education.

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attendance laws
attendance law

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Commentary

Attendance laws primarily relate to compulsory education statutes and are often enforced to prevent truancy and promote educational access.

Definitions

(n.) A formal rule or set of rules established by an organization, especially an employer or educational institution, governing the required presence of employees or students at work or classes.
The company's attendance policy requires all employees to notify their supervisor in case of absence.

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attendance policy
attendance policies

Related terms

Commentary

Attendance policies often clarify consequences for noncompliance and may vary depending on the organizational context, requiring precise drafting to ensure enforceability.

Definitions

(n.) A documented record of an individual's presence or participation at a legal proceeding, meeting, or within an institution, used for verification or compliance purposes.
The court clerk maintained the attendance record to verify the presence of all parties during the trial.

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attendance records

Related terms

case file

Commentary

In legal contexts, an attendance record serves as an official verification tool and should be maintained with accuracy to support procedural compliance.

Definitions

(n.) A document recording the presence or participation of individuals at a meeting, event, or legal proceeding, used to verify attendance for official or legal purposes.
The attendance sheet was submitted as evidence to prove who had been present at the arbitration hearing.

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attendance sheet
attendance sheets

Related terms

Commentary

Typically, the attendance sheet is a straightforward record but its accuracy and preservation can carry significant evidentiary weight in legal contexts.

Definitions

(n.) The systematic process of recording and monitoring individuals' presence in a legal or regulatory context, often for compliance, auditing, or litigation purposes.
The company implemented attendance tracking to ensure compliance with labor laws and contractual obligations.

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attendance tracking

Related terms

Commentary

Attendance tracking is crucial in legal contexts involving employment law, regulatory compliance, and evidentiary documentation.

Definitions

(n.) A person who is present at and assists with a legal proceeding, event, or official act, often serving a supportive or supervisory role.
The attendant ensured all witnesses were present before the trial began.
(adj.) Relating to or connected with a person providing assistance or attendance in a legal or official context.
The attendant circumstances were noted in the affidavit.

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attendants

Related terms

Commentary

The term 'attendant' in legal contexts often denotes a supportive role during proceedings; distinguish from 'attendance,' which refers to presence rather than the person present.

Definitions

(n.) The act of bringing a legal matter to the court's notice or consideration, often to establish jurisdiction or demand judicial action.
The plaintiff filed a motion for attention to ensure the court considered the newly discovered evidence.

Related terms

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'attention' often denotes the necessity of alerting the court to a matter requiring its action, distinct from everyday use implying focus or care.

Definitions

(v.) To reduce the effectiveness, value, or intensity of a legal right, claim, or obligation.
The defendant attempted to attenuate the plaintiff's claim by presenting new evidence.
(v.) To weaken or diminish the force or strength of something in a legal context, such as evidence or authority.
The lawyer sought to attenuate the impact of the prosecution's testimony.

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attenuates
attenuated
attenuating

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Commentary

Often used in legal drafting to describe actions or clauses that reduce or moderate rights, claims, or liabilities without eliminating them entirely.

Definitions

(v.) To bear witness to the truth or authenticity of a document or fact, often by signing as a witness.
The notary attested the signature on the affidavit.
(v.) To certify formally or officially, as by oath or signature.
The officer attested to the validity of the contract.

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attests
attested
attesting

Related terms

Commentary

In legal drafting, attesting is often accompanied by signatures and dates to establish evidentiary authenticity.

Definitions

(n.) The act of witnessing or certifying the authenticity of a document or signature, often by a notary or authorized official.
The attestation by the notary confirmed the validity of the will.
(n.) A formal declaration or statement made under oath, confirming the truth of a fact or document.
The witness provided an attestation verifying the accuracy of the evidence.

Related terms

Commentary

In legal drafting, clear specification of who performs the attestation and its scope is essential to ensure enforceability.

Definitions

(n.) Clothing or garments, especially as specified or required by law, contract, or regulation.
The contract stipulated professional attire for all employees.

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attires
attired
attiring

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Commentary

In legal contexts, attire often refers to clothing mandated or regulated by laws, contracts, or institutional policies, requiring precision when drafting to specify acceptable forms or standards.

Definitions

(n.) A person's or party's mental position or stance regarding legal matters, often influencing actions or interpretations.
The court considered the defendant's attitude when assessing credibility.
(n.) In property law, a non-vested interest or a state of mind necessary to create certain equitable rights.
The trustee’s attitude toward the beneficiary affected the execution of the trust.

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attitude
attitudes

Related terms

intent

Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify whether 'attitude' refers to subjective mental stance or a more technical concept such as equitable interest to avoid ambiguity.

Definitions

(n.) A person appointed to act for another in legal matters, especially a lawyer representing a client in court or legal transactions.
The attorney advised her client on the best course of action.
(n.) A person granted power of attorney to act on someone else's behalf in legal or financial matters.
He acted as attorney for his elderly parents in managing their estate.

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attorneys

Related terms

Commentary

In U.S. usage, "attorney" commonly refers to a practicing lawyer, whereas in some other jurisdictions it may denote a broader legal agent. When drafting, clarify the role (e.g., "attorney-in-fact") to avoid ambiguity.

Definitions

(n.) The formal process by which a lawyer is granted the authority to practice law and represent clients in a specific court or jurisdiction.
Her attorney admission to the state bar allowed her to begin practicing law formally.

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attorney admission
attorney admissions

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney admission typically requires passing a bar exam and meeting character and fitness standards; distinctions exist between admission to the bar generally and admission to practice in specific courts.

Definitions

(n.) The communication by an attorney to the public for the purpose of soliciting professional employment.
The state bar regulates attorney advertising to prevent misleading claims.

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attorney advertising

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Commentary

Attorney advertising is subject to ethical regulations to balance marketing with protecting public from deceptive practices.

Definitions

(n.) A legally qualified person authorized to practice law and represent clients in legal matters.
The attorney at law advised her client on the contract dispute.

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attorneys at law

Related terms

Commentary

The term emphasizes formal legal authorization to practice, distinguishing from informal legal advisors.

Definitions

(n.) The ethical and professional behavior standards governing attorneys in legal practice.
Attorney conduct is scrutinized during disciplinary proceedings for potential violations.
(n.) Actions and demeanor of an attorney during client representation and court proceedings.
The judge praised the attorney conduct for maintaining decorum throughout the trial.

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attorney conduct

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney conduct primarily refers to adherence to professional and ethical rules, often codified in bar association regulations or disciplinary codes.

Definitions

(n.) Rules and standards governing the ethical behavior and professional conduct of attorneys.
The attorney conduct rules prohibit conflicts of interest and mandate client confidentiality.

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attorney conduct rules

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney conduct rules vary by jurisdiction but universally serve to maintain integrity and public trust in the legal profession.

Definitions

(n.) An official document or certificate evidencing an attorney’s authorization and qualifications to practice law.
The attorney credential must be verified before she can represent clients in court.

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attorney credential
attorney credentials

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney credentials often serve as proof of legal qualification and are essential for practicing law within jurisdictional boundaries.

Definitions

(n.) The regulatory process by which lawyers are investigated and potentially sanctioned for professional misconduct or ethical violations.
The attorney discipline board reviewed the complaint before deciding on sanctions.

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney discipline primarily addresses maintaining ethical standards within the legal profession and protecting the public from misconduct.

Definitions

(n.) A contract between a client and attorney specifying the fees and payment terms for legal services.
The parties signed an attorney fee agreement before commencing the lawsuit.

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attorney fee agreement
attorney fee agreements

Related terms

retainer agreement

Commentary

Attorney fee agreements should clearly state the basis of fees and any conditions to avoid disputes and comply with ethical rules.

Definitions

(n.) Costs awarded to cover a party's legal representation expenses, usually payable to the prevailing party in litigation.
The court ordered the losing party to pay the prevailing party's attorney fees.

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attorney fee

Related terms

litigation expenses

Commentary

'Attorney fees' commonly appear in statutes and contracts addressing fee-shifting provisions; clarity in specifying whether fees include hourly rates, contingency fees, or other charges is important.

Definitions

(n.) The chief legal officer of a state or nation, responsible for representing the government in legal matters and overseeing public prosecutions.
The Attorney General issued a statement regarding the new legal policy.

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attorneys general
attorney generals

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Commentary

The title is pluralized as 'attorneys general' due to the adjective-noun construction. The term denotes a public office with broad legal authority typically vested by statute or constitution.

Definitions

(n.) A credential granted by a regulatory authority permitting a person to practice law as an attorney.
She obtained her attorney license after passing the state bar examination.

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attorney license
attorney licenses

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Commentary

An attorney license is jurisdiction-specific and typically requires passing a bar exam and meeting character and fitness standards.

Definitions

(n.) Professional negligence by an attorney resulting in harm to a client.
The client sued for attorney malpractice after the missed filing deadline caused case dismissal.

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attorney malpractice

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney malpractice claims require proving duty, breach, causation, and damages, making precise fact-finding essential.

Definitions

(n.) A lawyer who has formally appeared in a case and is recognized by the court as representing a party.
The attorney of record filed the motion on behalf of the defendant.

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attorney of record
attorneys of record

Related terms

Commentary

The term signifies formal recognition by the court; only the attorney of record has authority to act in the case unless substituted or withdrawn with court approval.

Definitions

(n.) An attorney who is not licensed to practice in a particular jurisdiction but is granted temporary permission by the court to represent a client in a specific case.
The court allowed the attorney pro hac vice to participate in the trial despite not being licensed in that state.

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attorney pro hac vice
attorneys pro hac vice

Related terms

Commentary

The term is used primarily in U.S. legal practice and requires association with local counsel; the court's permission is discretionary and case-specific.

Definitions

(n.) The act or process by which a lawyer directs a potential client to another attorney, often due to specialization, conflict of interest, or jurisdictional reasons.
The firm provided an attorney referral to a specialist in intellectual property law.
(n.) A program or service that connects individuals seeking legal representation with qualified attorneys.
She contacted the local bar association's attorney referral service for legal help.

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attorney referral
attorney referrals

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney referrals may arise from professional networks or formal programs; drafting related documents should clarify whether referrals involve fee-sharing or conflicts of interest.

Definitions

(n.) A system or organization that connects potential clients with licensed attorneys qualified to handle specific legal matters.
She contacted the attorney referral network to find a lawyer specializing in family law.
(n.) An arrangement or service often operating under bar association auspices to facilitate ethical and professional client referrals.
The attorney referral network ensures referrals comply with ethical guidelines and the rules of professional conduct.

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attorney referral network

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney referral networks must adhere to professional conduct rules to avoid unethical solicitation or conflicts of interest.

Definitions

(n.) The process by which an attorney is officially recorded with a governing legal authority to practice law within a jurisdiction.
Attorney registration is required before a lawyer can represent clients in court.

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attorney registration
attorney registrations

Related terms

Commentary

Often required annually or periodically, attorney registration ensures regulation and monitoring of legal professionals.

Definitions

(n.) The body of laws, rules, and ethical standards governing the conduct, licensing, and discipline of attorneys.
Attorney regulation ensures lawyers adhere to professional standards to protect clients and the legal system.

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attorney regulation

Related terms

Commentary

Term commonly used in contexts addressing the supervision and control of attorneys' professional behavior by authorized regulatory bodies.

Definitions

(n.) The process or act of a client formally engaging and retaining legal counsel to provide representation and legal services.
The attorney retention was formalized through a signed engagement letter outlining fee arrangements.

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attorney retention
attorney retentions

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney retention typically involves a retainer fee and contractual agreement specifying the scope of legal services.

Definitions

(n.) The act of seeking clients for legal services, often regulated to prevent unethical or coercive practices.
The bar association imposed sanctions for improper attorney solicitation.
(n.) A prohibited or restricted attempt by an attorney to solicit clients through direct or indirect contact, especially when involving potential conflicts or under misleading circumstances.
Attorney solicitation through unsolicited phone calls is banned in many jurisdictions.

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attorney solicitation

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney solicitation is heavily regulated to balance lawyers' right to advertise with protection of potential clients from undue pressure or misleading information.

Definitions

(n.) A separate bank account maintained by an attorney to hold client funds securely and separately from the attorney's own money.
The attorney deposited the settlement proceeds into the attorney trust account to safeguard the client's funds.

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attorney trust account
attorney trust accounts

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney trust accounts are subject to strict regulatory and ethical rules to prevent commingling and misuse of client funds.

Definitions

(n.) A person legally qualified to represent clients in legal matters and practice law in a court of law.
She consulted an attorney-at-law to draft her will.

Related terms

Commentary

The term 'attorney-at-law' is often used interchangeably with 'lawyer' but typically emphasizes the formal qualification to represent clients in court.

Definitions

(n.) A legally binding contract outlining the terms and conditions governing the relationship between an attorney and their client.
The attorney-client agreement specified the scope of legal services and payment terms.

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attorney-client agreements

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney-client agreements often include confidentiality clauses and fee arrangements; clarity reduces disputes over scope and payment.

Definitions

(n.) A legal rule protecting confidential communications between an attorney and their client from disclosure without the client's consent.
The court upheld the attorney-client privilege and excluded the email as evidence.

Related terms

Commentary

This privilege applies only to communications made for the purpose of seeking or providing legal advice and can be waived by the client.

Definitions

(n.) A fiduciary relationship between an attorney and client, involving confidentiality, loyalty, and the attorney's duty to represent the client's interests.
The attorney-client relationship is protected by law to ensure open communication.
(n.) The legal basis for privilege that prevents disclosure of confidential communications between attorney and client without consent.
The court upheld the attorney-client relationship privilege during the trial.

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attorney-client relationship
attorney-client relationships

Related terms

Commentary

This term covers both the personal and legal aspects of the professional bond between attorney and client, emphasizing its confidentiality and duty components.

Definitions

(n.) A person authorized to act on behalf of another by a power of attorney.
The attorney-in-fact signed the contract according to the authority granted in the power of attorney.

Related terms

Commentary

An attorney-in-fact acts under a power of attorney and is distinct from an attorney at law, who is a licensed lawyer.

Definitions

(n.) A legal principle that protects confidential communications between an attorney and their client from being disclosed without the client's consent.
The court upheld the attorney–client privilege, preventing the disclosure of the client's sensitive information.

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney–client privilege is fundamental for candid communication in legal representation; drafters should carefully define its scope and limitations to avoid unintended waivers or exceptions.

Definitions

(n.) Compensation awarded to or paid for legal services rendered by an attorney.
The plaintiff was ordered to pay the defendant's attorney's fees after losing the case.

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attorney's fee
attorneys' fee

Related terms

Commentary

Attorney's fees often arise in fee-shifting statutes and affect litigation strategy due to potential cost recovery.

Definitions

(n.) The act of acknowledging a new owner of property by a tenant, especially in the context of landlord and tenant law.
The tenant's attornment confirmed the landlord's rights after the property was sold.
(n.) The tenant's formal recognition and acceptance of a new landlord, binding them under the lease terms.
Attornment required the tenant to recognize the purchaser as their new landlord under the existing lease.

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attornment
attornments

Related terms

Commentary

Attornment is chiefly used in landlord-tenant law to effectuate the relationship between the tenant and a new landlord, often after an assignment or sale of the property, ensuring continuity of lease obligations.

Definitions

(n.) A quality, characteristic, or feature regarded as inherent in or ascribed to a person, thing, or legal entity.
The attribute of good faith is essential in contract negotiations.
(v.) To regard something as being caused by or belonging to a particular person or entity; to ascribe.
The court attributed the breach of contract to the defendant's negligence.

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attributes
attributed
attributing

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Commentary

As a legal term, 'attribute' often underscores essential qualities relevant to rights, duties, or legal capacity; it is important to distinguish when used as a noun (characteristic) versus a verb (ascribing cause or ownership).

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(n.) The legal assignment or recognition of responsibility or authorship, often regarding source identification or liability.
The court considered the attribution of fault to the defendant crucial in the judgment.
(n.) In copyright law, the acknowledgment of the original creator of a work when it is used or distributed.
Proper attribution to the author is required under the Creative Commons license.

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Attribution often appears in contexts of liability and intellectual property; clarity in who is being attributed is key to avoid legal disputes.

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(n.) The legal determination of responsibility or blame for a wrongful act or harm among parties involved.
The court considered the attribution of fault before awarding damages.

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attribution of fault

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Commentary

The term is often central in tort law to allocate damages based on each party's degree of fault.

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(n.) The legal process of determining which party is responsible for a particular harm or legal obligation.
The court's attribution of liability established who had to compensate the injured party.
(n.) The allocation of legal responsibility among multiple parties in a dispute or claim.
Attribution of liability among defendants can affect the damages each must pay.

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attribution of liability

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Commentary

Attribution of liability often involves complex factual and legal analysis, including causation and fault; precision in its use is important to distinguish it from general liability concepts.

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(n.) Legal principles or guidelines determining the assignment of responsibility, liability, or credit for an action or event to a particular party.
The court applied the attribution rules to identify which party was liable for the damages.

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attribution rules
attribution rule

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Commentary

Attribution rules vary by jurisdiction and context, often specifying how acts or knowledge of one person or entity are legally imputed to another, such as an employer or principal.

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