FA glossary terms

Browse full definitions for every FA term in the Amicus glossary.

Faa Regulations

/ˌɛf.eɪ.eɪ ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃənz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Rules and standards issued by the Federal Aviation Administration governing civil aviation safety, air traffic control, and related matters in the United States.
    All commercial pilots must comply with the FAA regulations before operating an aircraft.

Forms

  • faa regulations
  • faa regulation

Commentary

FAA regulations are foundational in U.S. aviation law; they are often codified in Title 14 of the CFR and subject to administrative rulemaking procedures.


Fabricate

/ˈfæbrɪˌkeɪt/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To make or invent a false document, story, or evidence with intent to deceive in a legal context.
    The defendant was charged for fabricating evidence to mislead the court.
  2. (v.) To construct or manufacture an object or product, typically in an industrial or legal contractual setting.
    The company fabricated the metal parts as specified in the contract.

Forms

  • fabricates
  • fabricated
  • fabricating

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'fabricate' often implies intentional deception, especially regarding evidence or documents; distinguish from neutral use relating to manufacturing.


Fabrication

/ˌfæbrɪˈkeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act or process of making or inventing something, often used in manufacturing or construction contexts.
    The factory specializes in the fabrication of metal parts.
  2. (n.) The act of falsifying or inventing false evidence or information, especially in legal or forensic contexts.
    The defendant was charged with fabrication of evidence to mislead the court.

Commentary

In legal contexts, "fabrication" often implies deceit when related to evidence or information, distinguishing it from general manufacturing usage.


Facade

/fəˈsɑːd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The outward appearance or face of a building, often masking the interior structure or use.
    The building's facade was renovated to comply with historic preservation laws.
  2. (n.) A deceptive outward appearance intended to conceal a less pleasant reality in legal contexts, such as sham transactions or front arrangements.
    The court saw the contract as a mere facade to hide the true nature of the deal.

Forms

  • facades

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish between literal architectural meaning and metaphorical use indicating deception; the context usually clarifies usage.


Face Covering

/ˈfeɪs ˌkʌvərɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A material or device worn over the nose and mouth to reduce transmission of respiratory droplets, often mandated by public health laws or regulations.
    The ordinance requires everyone to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces.

Forms

  • face coverings

Commentary

Legal definitions of face covering often arise in public health statutes or emergency regulations and focus on the functional aspect of controlling disease spread, not specific materials or styles.


Face Value

/ˈfeɪs ˈvæljuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The nominal or stated value of a security, document, or obligation as printed on its face without consideration of market value or other factors.
    The bond was sold at its face value despite fluctuations in the market.
  2. (n.) The apparent or literal meaning of a statement or document, accepted without question or deeper analysis.
    The court refused to accept the contract's terms merely at face value.

Forms

  • face value

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'face value' often requires clarification to distinguish between nominal amount and actual worth, especially in securities and contract contexts.


Facepiece

/ˈfeɪspis/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A protective covering for the lower part of the face, often part of a respirator or safety apparatus, used in legal contexts concerning workplace safety regulations.
    The employer is required to provide a facepiece to workers handling hazardous substances.

Forms

  • facepiece
  • facepieces

Commentary

The term 'facepiece' primarily appears in occupational safety law related to mandated protective gear, so drafting should emphasize regulatory compliance and safety standards.


Facial Challenge

/ˈfeɪʃəl ˈtʃælɪndʒ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal objection asserting that a statute or regulation is unconstitutional on its face, meaning it is invalid in all applications.
    The plaintiff filed a facial challenge arguing the law violated the First Amendment.

Forms

  • facial challenge
  • facial challenges

Commentary

Facial challenges seek to invalidate a law entirely, unlike as-applied challenges which target specific applications.


Facial Recognition

/ˈfeɪʃəl ˌrɛkəɡˈnɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A biometric technology that identifies or verifies individuals by analyzing facial features, often used in law enforcement and security.
    The court examined the legality of facial recognition technology used in the surveillance system.

Commentary

Legal definitions of facial recognition emphasize its implications for privacy and data protection, especially regarding consent and accuracy in enforcement contexts.


Facilitation

/fəˌsɪlɪˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act or process of making a legal procedure, negotiation, or transaction easier or smoother by assisting communication or removing obstacles.
    The facilitation of contract negotiations helped the parties reach an agreement quickly.
  2. (n.) In criminal law, the act of aiding or abetting the commission of a crime without directly participating in the criminal act itself.
    He was charged with facilitation for providing the means to commit the fraud.

Commentary

Facilitation in legal contexts often denotes either procedural assistance or liability for helping another commit a crime; clarity in drafting should distinguish these meanings.


Facilitator

/fəˈsɪlɪˌteɪtər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A neutral third party who guides discussions and negotiations to help parties reach agreement or resolve disputes.
    The facilitator helped the conflicting parties reach a consensus during the mediation session.
  2. (n.) An individual who manages or oversees procedural aspects in legal settings, such as meetings or arbitration, to ensure effective communication and process flow.
    The facilitator ensured the arbitration hearing proceeded smoothly and on schedule.

Forms

  • facilitators

Commentary

In legal contexts, a facilitator is generally distinct from a mediator or arbitrator in that they do not impose decisions but assist the process and communication among parties.


Facility

/fəˈsɪlɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A physical property or establishment designed and equipped to provide a specific service or accommodate a particular activity, often subject to legal regulation.
    The new manufacturing facility complies with environmental regulations.
  2. (n.) A legal provision or means enabling a particular action or process.
    The contract includes a facility for early termination upon notice.

Forms

  • facilities (pl.)

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'facility' often denotes physical premises but may also refer to contractual mechanisms enabling certain rights or actions; clarity depends on context.


Facility Manager

/ˈfæsɪlɪti ˈmænɪdʒər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A professional responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and security of a property or facility, ensuring compliance with legal regulations and contractual obligations.
    The facility manager ensured that the building met all local safety codes and accessibility laws.

Forms

  • facility managers

Commentary

In legal contexts, the role of a facility manager often intersects with compliance and liability issues, so precise contractual terms defining duties and responsibilities are recommended.


Facsimile

/ˈfæksɪˌmɪli/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An exact copy or reproduction of a document, often used in legal contexts to transmit signed papers securely and quickly.
    The court accepted the facsimile of the signed contract as evidence.
  2. (v.) To send a document by fax, transmitting an exact copy electronically.
    The attorney facsimiled the settlement agreement to the opposing counsel.

Forms

  • facsimiles
  • facsimiled
  • facsimiling

Commentary

Facsimile in legal usage emphasizes the authenticity and exactness of document copies, important when originals are not available; electronic facsimiles often require explicit acceptance to be legally binding.


Fact

/ˈfækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An occurrence or condition verified or proved to be true, forming the basis for legal reasoning or decision.
    The judge examined the facts before reaching a verdict.
  2. (n.) Evidence or information presented to demonstrate the reality of an event or situation in a legal dispute.
    The witness provided facts that supported the plaintiff’s claim.

Forms

  • facts

Commentary

In legal context, distinguishing 'fact' from 'law' is crucial; facts are matters to be proven, while law involves legal principles applied to those facts.


Fact Investigation

/ˈfækt ˌɪnˌvɛstəˈɡeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process of collecting, examining, and verifying facts relevant to a legal matter or case.
    The lawyer emphasized the importance of thorough fact investigation before filing the lawsuit.
  2. (n.) An inquiry conducted to determine the factual circumstances surrounding an event or dispute in legal proceedings.
    Fact investigation revealed inconsistencies in the witness statements.

Forms

  • fact investigation
  • fact investigations

Commentary

Fact investigation is foundational in legal practice, requiring careful attention to evidence and credibility to support legal arguments effectively.


Fact Pattern

/ˈfækt ˌpætərn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A specific set of circumstances or events relevant to a legal case.
    The judge examined the fact pattern to determine liability.
  2. (n.) The framework of facts from which legal principles are applied to reach a decision.
    Understanding the fact pattern is crucial for effective legal analysis.

Forms

  • fact patterns

Commentary

A precise fact pattern helps ensure consistent application of law; drafters should clearly detail relevant facts to avoid ambiguity.


Fact-Find

/ˈfækt faɪnd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A preliminary investigatory hearing or inquiry conducted to establish facts and issues before a legal proceeding.
    The court scheduled a fact-find to determine the specifics of the dispute before trial.

Forms

  • fact-finds

Commentary

Typically used in family law and employment disputes to clarify contested facts; not a full trial but crucial for case management.


Fact-Finde

Definitions

  1. (n.) An authoritative individual, such as a judge or jury, tasked with determining the facts in a legal proceeding.
    The fact-finder must evaluate the evidence carefully before issuing a verdict.

Forms

  • fact-finders
  • fact-finding

Commentary

The term 'fact-finder' is more commonly used; 'fact-finde' appears as a variant or truncation. Usage consistency recommends employing the full term 'fact-finder' in formal legal drafting.


Fact-Finder

/ˈfækt ˌfaɪndər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual, often a judge or hearing officer, responsible for determining the facts in a legal proceeding.
    The fact-finder assessed witness credibility before issuing a verdict.

Forms

  • fact-finders

Commentary

The role of a fact-finder is distinct from that of a judge on points of law; clarity in identifying fact-finders is crucial in legal drafting and proceedings.


Fact-Finding Commission

/ˈfækt ˌfaɪndɪŋ kəˈmɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A body established to investigate and ascertain facts in a dispute or controversy, often to aid resolution or provide a basis for decision-making.
    The fact-finding commission gathered evidence from all parties before issuing its report.

Forms

  • fact-finding commissions

Commentary

Fact-finding commissions are typically neutral entities tasked with uncovering facts rather than adjudicating disputes; their findings may inform further legal or administrative actions.


Fact-Finding Hearing

/ˈfækt ˈfaɪndɪŋ ˈhɪərɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal proceeding conducted to establish facts before a final decision or trial.
    The court held a fact-finding hearing to determine the circumstances of the dispute.

Forms

  • fact-finding hearing
  • fact-finding hearings

Commentary

Fact-finding hearings focus exclusively on establishing factual matters and typically precede substantive rulings or judgments.


Fact-Finding Interview

/ˈfækt ˈfaɪndɪŋ ˈɪntərvjuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A structured meeting conducted to obtain facts and information relevant to a legal investigation or dispute.
    The attorney conducted a fact-finding interview to gather evidence from the witness.

Forms

  • fact-finding interview
  • fact-finding interviews

Commentary

Fact-finding interviews are often preliminary steps in legal investigations and help frame subsequent legal actions; drafting them requires clarity and neutrality to ensure accuracy and admissibility.


Fact-Finding Mission

/ˈfækt ˌfaɪn.dɪŋ ˈmɪʃ.ən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official inquiry or investigation conducted to establish facts relevant to a legal dispute or issue.
    The court appointed a fact-finding mission to determine the circumstances surrounding the contract breach.

Forms

  • fact-finding missions

Commentary

Often used in international law and arbitration, fact-finding missions help establish unbiased facts before adjudication.


Fact-Finding Procedure

/ˈfækt-ˌfaɪndɪŋ prəˈsiːdʒər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procedural step in legal or administrative contexts aimed at investigating and establishing the facts of a dispute or claim before decision-making.
    The court initiated a fact-finding procedure to gather all relevant evidence before proceeding to trial.

Forms

  • fact-finding procedure
  • fact-finding procedures

Commentary

Fact-finding procedures are critical in ensuring decisions rest on verified information and can vary in formality depending on jurisdiction and context.


Fact-Finding Report

/ˈfækt ˌfaɪndɪŋ rɪˈpɔrt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal document presenting the findings from an investigation or inquiry, often used in legal or administrative contexts to establish facts.
    The fact-finding report detailed the evidence collected during the regulatory inspection.

Forms

  • fact-finding report
  • fact-finding reports

Commentary

Fact-finding reports serve as crucial groundwork for legal decisions and administrative actions; clarity and thoroughness are essential in drafting.


Fact-Finding-Process

/ˈfækt ˈfaɪndɪŋ ˈprɑːsɛs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procedural method used to gather facts and evidence in legal disputes or investigations.
    The court initiated a fact-finding process to establish the timeline of events.
  2. (n.) An official inquiry or investigation by a neutral party to determine the factual circumstances of a case.
    The fact-finding process conducted by the arbitration panel clarified the disputed issues.

Forms

  • fact-finding-processes

Commentary

The fact-finding process is foundational in litigation and alternative dispute resolution; precise delineation of scope and methods is crucial to ensure admissibility and fairness.


Facta

/ˈfæk.tə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal facts or events relevant to a case, forming the basis for legal reasoning or judgments.
    The judge examined the facta before rendering a verdict.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'facta' is a Latin plural noun referring specifically to the facts of a case, often distinguished from legal principles or norms.


Factfinder

/ˈfæktˌfaɪndər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual or body charged with determining the facts in a legal proceeding, often a judge or jury.
    The factfinder must weigh the evidence carefully before reaching a verdict.

Forms

  • factfinders

Commentary

The term 'factfinder' is typically used in trial or adjudicative contexts to denote the entity legally vested with fact-finding authority, distinct from appellate review.


Faction

/ˈfæk.ʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A subgroup within a larger group, especially in political or legal contexts, often formed around a common interest or cause and sometimes causing disagreement or conflict.
    The parliament was divided into several factions competing for influence.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'faction' often denotes internal groupings within organizations or political bodies that may influence negotiations, voting, or policy decisions.


Factor

/ˈfæk.tər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An agent who purchases accounts receivable or debts at a discount for collection.
    The company used a factor to improve its cash flow by selling its outstanding invoices.
  2. (n.) A circumstance, fact, or influence contributing to a legal outcome or decision.
    The presence of negligence was a key factor in the court's ruling.
  3. (n.) In law of agency, a person entrusted with possession of goods for sale or management.
    The factor held the goods on behalf of the principal until sold.

Forms

  • factors

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish 'factor' as an agent engaging in commercial transactions from its broader sense as a contributing legal circumstance.


Factory

/ˈfæktəri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A building or complex where goods are manufactured or assembled.
    The company built a new factory to increase production capacity.
  2. (n.) Under commercial law, a merchant or agent who factors goods, i.e., sells goods on commission for another.
    The factory was entrusted with selling the cotton on behalf of the growers.

Forms

  • factories

Commentary

In law, 'factory' primarily denotes a manufacturing site but can also refer to a historical commercial agent role known as a 'factor.' Usage depends on legal context.


Factory Act

/ˈfæktəri ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A series of statutes regulating labor conditions in factories, focusing on workers' health, safety, and hours.
    The Factory Act of 1833 was a landmark law improving industrial working conditions.

Forms

  • factory acts

Commentary

The term typically refers to historic UK legislation but is used broadly to denote similar laws in other jurisdictions regulating factory labor conditions.


Factual Basis

/ˈfæktʃuəl ˈbeɪsɪs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Evidence or facts supporting a legal claim, plea, or allegation.
    The defendant's guilty plea must have a sufficient factual basis to be accepted by the court.
  2. (n.) The underlying facts that justify a legal decision or ruling.
    The judge reviewed the factual basis before rendering the verdict.

Forms

  • factual bases

Commentary

A clear and sufficient factual basis is required to validate pleas and legal conclusions, ensuring decisions are grounded in actual facts rather than speculation.


Factual Narrative

/ˈfæk.tʃu.əl ˈnær.ə.tɪv/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A detailed and chronological account of facts relevant to a legal case, used to establish the context or foundation for legal arguments.
    The attorney prepared a factual narrative to present the events leading up to the contract dispute.

Forms

  • factual narratives

Commentary

A factual narrative is distinct from legal argument; it focuses solely on the facts as they occurred, providing a clear foundation before applying legal principles.


Factum

/ˈfæk.təm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A deed or legal act, especially one constituting a formal document or written instrument.
    The parties executed a factum to finalize the transfer of property.
  2. (n.) In legal argument, a statement of facts or brief presented to a court.
    The lawyer submitted a factum outlining the key facts and arguments.

Forms

  • facta

Commentary

Primarily used in civil law and common law contexts to denote formal written acts or legal briefs; clarify usage based on jurisdiction and context.


Faculty

/ˈfækəlti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal capacity, power, or authority granted by law or contract.
    The trustee has the faculty to manage the trust assets.
  2. (n.) An inherent intellectual or physical power or ability relevant to legal rights or status.
    The defendant's mental faculties were questioned during the trial.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'faculty' often denotes a specific power granted by law or contract, distinct from its broader academic meaning.


Faculty Member

/ˈfæk.əl.ti ˈmɛm.bər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual formally appointed to teach, conduct research, or hold an academic position within a university or college.
    The faculty member presented new research findings at the academic conference.

Forms

  • faculty members

Commentary

In legal contexts, especially in academic employment law, clear definition of faculty member status affects rights and obligations under contracts, tenure, and institutional policies.


Fafsa

/ˈfæfsə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a U.S. government form used to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school.
    She completed the FAFSA to qualify for federal student loans.

Forms

  • fafsa

Commentary

FAFSA is a specific legal form tied to federal regulations governing student financial assistance; precise completion is essential for eligibility determination.


Failure to Act

/ˈfeɪljər tə ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The omission or neglect to perform a legal duty or required action, potentially giving rise to liability or enforcement.
    The defendant's failure to act constituted negligence under tort law.
  2. (n.) In criminal law, the omission of an act when there is a legal duty to act, possibly resulting in criminal liability.
    Her failure to act to prevent harm was deemed criminal under the duty-to-rescue statutes.

Forms

  • failure to act

Commentary

Precise identification of the legal duty breached is crucial; mere inaction is not always actionable unless a duty to act exists.


Failure to Appear

/ˈfeɪljər tu əˈpɪr/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The criminal offense of not appearing in court as required, often after being summoned or released on bail.
    The defendant was charged with failure to appear after missing their scheduled court date.

Forms

  • failure to appear
  • failures to appear

Commentary

Failure to appear typically triggers issuance of a bench warrant and may result in additional charges; precise procedural consequences vary by jurisdiction.


Failure to Provide Care

/ˈfeɪljər tə prəˈvaɪd kɛər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The omission or neglect to furnish necessary care or assistance, often resulting in legal liability, especially in medical, caregiving, or fiduciary contexts.
    The caregiver was sued for failure to provide care that led to the patient's injury.

Forms

  • failure to provide care

Commentary

This term typically arises in tort and criminal law contexts where an established duty to act exists; precise definition depends on statutory or case law standards applicable to the care context.


Fair

/ˈfɛər/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) In accordance with the rules or standards; just and equitable.
    The court must ensure a fair trial for all parties.
  2. (adj.) Free from bias, dishonesty, or injustice.
    The judge maintained a fair and impartial stance throughout the hearing.
  3. (adj.) Reasonable or acceptable in the circumstances, especially with respect to price or treatment.
    They reached a fair settlement agreement to resolve the dispute.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'fair' emphasizes impartiality, just treatment, and adherence to rules or standards; careful use is advised to avoid vague or subjective interpretations.


Fair Credit Reporting Act

/ˈfɛər ˈkrɛdɪt rɪˈpɔrtɪŋ ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A federal law regulating the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer credit information to promote accuracy, fairness, and privacy.
    The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit bureaus to provide consumers with access to their credit reports.

Forms

  • fair credit reporting act

Commentary

The FCRA is crucial for protecting consumers in the credit reporting ecosystem; drafting related policies should emphasize compliance with notice and dispute resolution requirements.


Fair Dealing

/ˌfɛər ˈdiːlɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal doctrine allowing limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as research, criticism, or news reporting, subject to fairness criteria.
    The use of a short excerpt in the review was considered fair dealing under copyright law.

Forms

  • fair dealing

Commentary

Fair dealing is distinct from fair use primarily in jurisdictions like the UK, Canada, and Australia; it is important to assess the specific allowed purposes and fairness factors in each jurisdiction.


Fair Debt Collection

/ˈfɛər dɛt kəˈlɛkʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The practice of collecting consumer debts in compliance with legal standards that protect consumers from abusive, deceptive, or unfair debt collection methods.
    Fair debt collection requires debt collectors to provide accurate information and prohibits harassment.

Forms

  • fair debt collection

Commentary

The term is often associated with statutory regulation such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) in the U.S., emphasizing lawful and ethical methods in third-party debt collection.


Fair Debt Collection Practices

/ˌfɛr dɛt kəˈlɛkʃən ˈpræktɪsɪz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Statutory and regulatory standards governing the practices debt collectors must follow to protect consumers from abusive, deceptive, or unfair debt collection methods.
    The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act prohibits collectors from calling at unreasonable hours.

Forms

  • fair debt collection practices
  • fair debt collection practice

Commentary

Typically referenced as the set of legal norms protecting consumers, commonly embodied in statutes like the FDCPA; often used in regulatory and litigation contexts related to debt collection.


Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

/ˈfɛr dɛt kəˈlɛkʃən ˈpræktɪsɪz ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal law enacted in 1977 that regulates debt collection practices to eliminate abusive, deceptive, and unfair methods used by debt collectors.
    The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act prohibits debt collectors from calling consumers at unreasonable hours.

Forms

  • fair debt collection practices act

Commentary

Often abbreviated as FDCPA; important for protecting consumers against harassment in debt collection.


Fair Hearing

/ˈfɛər ˈhɪərɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procedural right to have an impartial tribunal or decision-maker hear and decide a case after a fair and public opportunity to present evidence and arguments.
    The plaintiff was entitled to a fair hearing before the administrative agency made its final decision.
  2. (n.) An adjudicative process that ensures due process by providing notice, opportunity to be heard, and an opportunity to respond before an adverse determination is made.
    Employees are often guaranteed a fair hearing before termination under union contracts.

Forms

  • fair hearing
  • fair hearings

Commentary

Fair hearings are fundamental to administrative law and constitutional law, emphasizing procedural fairness and due process protections.


Fair Housing

/ˈfɛər ˈhaʊzɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal principle and set of federal laws prohibiting discrimination in housing-related transactions based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability.
    The Fair Housing Act protects individuals from discriminatory rental practices.
  2. (n.) Policies or practices promoting equal access to housing opportunities regardless of protected characteristics.
    Local governments implement fair housing plans to ensure equal access to all residents.

Forms

  • fair housing

Commentary

Fair Housing is often invoked in civil rights litigation and policy drafting; precise reference to protected classes under law is central to its application.


Fair Housing Act

/ˈfer ˈhaʊzɪŋ ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal law enacted in 1968 aimed at eliminating discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability.
    The Fair Housing Act prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to families with children.

Forms

  • fair housing acts

Commentary

Often cited in matters of civil rights and housing fairness; drafting should specify protected classes and prohibited practices precisely.


Fair Housing Laws

/ˌfɛər ˈhaʊzɪŋ lɔz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Statutes and regulations that prohibit discrimination in housing-related transactions to ensure equal access regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability.
    Fair housing laws protect individuals from being denied rental housing based on their ethnicity.
  2. (n.) A body of legal protections intended to prevent practices such as redlining, blockbusting, or discriminatory zoning that restrict access to housing opportunities.
    Under fair housing laws, landlords cannot refuse tenants on discriminatory grounds.

Forms

  • fair housing laws
  • fair housing law

Commentary

Fair housing laws are foundational in civil rights legal frameworks; drafters should specify protected classes clearly to avoid ambiguity and ensure comprehensive coverage.


Fair Labor Standards Act

/ˌfɛr ˈleɪbər ˈstændərdz ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal statute establishing minimum wage, overtime pay eligibility, recordkeeping, and child labor standards affecting employees in the private sector and in federal, state, and local governments.
    The Fair Labor Standards Act mandates overtime pay for eligible employees working more than 40 hours per week.

Forms

  • fair labor standards act

Commentary

Often abbreviated FLSA, it is foundational in regulating work hours and wages in the U.S., frequently cited in employment litigation and compliance contexts.


Fair Lending

/ˈfɛər ˈlɛndɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The principle and practice of providing loans and credit on equitable terms without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics.
    Fair lending laws prohibit discriminatory practices in mortgage approvals.

Forms

  • fair lending

Commentary

Fair lending provisions are central to consumer protection in credit transactions; drafting should emphasize nondiscrimination criteria and compliance with regulatory frameworks.


Fair Lending Laws

/ˈfɛər ˈlɛndɪŋ lɔːz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Statutes and regulations that prohibit discrimination in providing credit and lending services to ensure equal access regardless of race, gender, or other protected characteristics.
    The Fair Lending Laws prevent lenders from denying a mortgage based on an applicant's ethnicity.

Forms

  • fair lending laws
  • fair lending law

Commentary

Fair Lending Laws are crucial in regulating financial institutions to promote equitable credit practices and prevent discriminatory lending. Drafting and compliance require careful attention to protected classes and evidentiary standards for discrimination.


Fair Market Value

/ˌfɛər ˈmɑrkɪt ˈvælju/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The estimated price at which a property or asset would change hands between a willing buyer and seller, neither under compulsion and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.
    The appraiser determined the fair market value of the property before the sale.

Commentary

Fair market value assumes an open and unrestricted market and is often used in tax law, estate planning, and contractual contexts to ensure impartial valuation.


Fair Pay Legislation

/ˈfɛər peɪ ˌlɛdʒɪsˈleɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Statutory enactments requiring employers to provide equitable wages and prohibit discriminatory pay based on gender, race, or other protected characteristics.
    The company ensured compliance with fair pay legislation to avoid wage discrimination claims.

Forms

  • fair pay legislation

Commentary

Drafting fair pay legislation often involves precise definitions of protected classes and mechanisms for enforcement to effectively address wage disparities.


Fair Play

/ˌfɛər pleɪ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Principle requiring honest, equitable, and impartial conduct by parties in legal or regulatory contexts.
    The judge emphasized the importance of fair play in contractual negotiations.
  2. (n.) The practice of adhering to established rules and ethical standards in litigation and dispute resolution.
    Lawyers must maintain fair play during litigation to preserve justice.

Forms

  • fair play

Commentary

Fair play commonly refers to underlying ethical standards ensuring justice and integrity in legal procedures; it is broader than strict legal rules and often informs interpretation.


Fair Trade

/ˈfɛər treɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency, and respect, ensuring fair prices and ethical treatment of producers in developing countries.
    The company sources all coffee through fair trade to support small farmers.

Forms

  • fair trade

Commentary

In legal contexts, fair trade often intersects with regulations on import-export, consumer rights, and international labor standards.


Fair Trial

/ˈfɛər traɪəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A judicial proceeding conducted impartially according to established legal principles to determine a person's guilt or innocence or to resolve a dispute.
    Everyone is entitled to a fair trial under the law.
  2. (n.) A trial that respects all procedural rights, including the right to counsel, to present evidence, and to an unbiased judge or jury.
    The defendant demanded a fair trial with adequate defense representation.

Forms

  • fair trial
  • fair trials

Commentary

The concept of a fair trial encompasses both substantive and procedural fairness, ensuring justice is administered without bias or undue delay.


Fair Use

/ˈfɛər juːs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal doctrine permitting limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research.
    The teacher cited fair use to justify copying excerpts for classroom discussion.

Commentary

Fair use is context-specific and involves a multi-factor analysis including purpose, nature, amount used, and market effect.


Fair Use Doctrine

/ˈfɛər juz ˈdɒktrɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle permitting limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research.
    The fair use doctrine allows educators to reproduce small excerpts of copyrighted texts for classroom use.

Forms

  • fair use doctrine
  • fair use doctrines

Commentary

Fair use is fact-specific and assessed using factors like purpose, nature, amount used, and market effect; carefully tailoring uses to these factors helps avoid infringement risk.


Fair Value

/ˈfɛər ˈvæljuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The estimated price at which an asset or liability could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced or liquidation sale, reflecting unbiased market conditions.
    The financial statements must be prepared using fair value measurements for certain assets.
  2. (n.) The value used in accounting and financial reporting to represent the true economic worth of an asset or liability, as required by standards such as IFRS and US GAAP.
    Under IFRS 13, companies must disclose how they determine fair value for various assets.

Forms

  • fair value

Commentary

Fair value is context-dependent and often relies on market data or valuation models; clarity in defining terms and assumptions in legal or financial documents is crucial to avoid disputes.


Fair Value Accounting

/ˈfɛər ˈvælju ˌəˈkaʊntɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An accounting method that values assets and liabilities at their current market price or an estimate of fair market value rather than historical cost.
    Under fair value accounting, the company adjusted its asset values to reflect current market conditions.

Forms

  • fair value accounting

Commentary

Fair value accounting is significant in financial law and regulation for its impact on transparency and asset/liability valuation; drafters should note its contrast with historical cost methods.


Fair Value Measurement

/ˌfɛər ˈvælju ˌmɛʒərmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process of determining the fair value of an asset or liability under legal or regulatory financial reporting standards.
    The company adopted fair value measurement to comply with IFRS guidelines.
  2. (n.) A valuation approach used in litigation or dispute resolution to establish the monetary worth of property or interests.
    The court relied on fair value measurement to settle the shareholder dispute.

Forms

  • fair value measurement

Commentary

Fair value measurement often requires considering market conditions and legal standards simultaneously, emphasizing transparency and objectivity in valuation.


Fair Value Principle

/ˈfɛər ˈvæljuː ˈprɪnsəpəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An accounting principle requiring assets and liabilities to be measured at their current market value rather than historical cost.
    The fair value principle ensures that the financial statements reflect the actual market conditions at the reporting date.

Forms

  • fair value principle

Commentary

The fair value principle often aligns with IFRS and GAAP requirements and is critical for transparent financial disclosures.


Fair Wage

/ˈfɛər weɪdʒ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A wage considered just and equitable, reflecting the worker's role, skill, and cost of living, often mandated by law or collective agreement.
    The court ruled that the company must pay all employees a fair wage according to the new labor standards.

Forms

  • fair wage
  • fair wages

Commentary

The term 'fair wage' is context-dependent and may vary across jurisdictions; typically, it emphasizes moral and legal standards for just remuneration beyond mere minimum wages.


Fairer

/ˈfeərər/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Comparative form of fair; implying greater equity, justice, or impartiality in legal contexts.
    The court sought a fairer distribution of the estate among the heirs.

Commentary

Used as a comparative adjective, 'fairer' modifies adjectives to indicate increased fairness; in legal drafting, consider using precise terms to avoid ambiguity.


Fairest

/ˈfeərɪst/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Most just, equitable, or impartial according to law or usage.
    The fairest resolution was reached after careful deliberation.

Commentary

'Fairest' is primarily used as a comparative superlative adjective denoting highest degree of fairness; legal contexts may involve equitable treatment or unbiased decisions.


Fairly

/ˈfɛərli/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) In a just, equitable, or unbiased manner relative to law or legal proceedings.
    The judge fairly assessed the evidence before rendering a decision.
  2. (adv.) To a moderate extent or degree as recognized in legal context.
    The contract was fairly interpreted according to the parties' intent.

Commentary

Used primarily as an adverb to qualify fairness or equity in legal contexts; not a standalone legal term but essential in describing procedural or substantive justness.


Fairness

/ˈfɛərnəs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The quality of treating all parties justly and without bias in legal proceedings or agreements.
    The judge emphasized fairness in the trial to ensure both sides received equal consideration.
  2. (n.) The principle that legal processes must be conducted openly, impartially, and with due process.
    Fairness requires that defendants are given notice and an opportunity to be heard.

Commentary

Fairness often overlaps with due process and equity, but it emphasizes unbiased treatment and procedural integrity in legal contexts.


Fairness Doctrine

/ˈfɛərnəs ˈdɒktrɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A former U.S. regulatory policy requiring broadcast licensees to present contrasting viewpoints on controversial issues of public importance.
    The FCC repealed the Fairness Doctrine in 1987.

Commentary

Primarily used in the context of U.S. communications law; it shaped editorial obligations of broadcasters under FCC rules.


Faith

/feɪθ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Complete trust or confidence in a person, entity, or doctrine, often foundational in contracts and fiduciary duties.
    The contract was formed in good faith by both parties.
  2. (n.) A religious belief or system of religious conviction, sometimes relevant in constitutional law or rights cases.
    The defendant claimed protection under freedom of faith.
  3. (n.) A principle of honesty and sincerity in legal dealings, especially in equitable doctrines.
    The court ruled the parties must act in utmost faith and fairness.

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish between faith as trust or honesty (e.g., good faith) and religious belief to avoid ambiguity.


Fake

/ˈfeɪk/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Not genuine or authentic, made to deceive; often used regarding documents, signatures, goods, or identities.
    The defendant was charged with possessing fake identification.
  2. (n.) A counterfeit or forgery intended to mislead or defraud.
    The lawyer presented evidence that the contract was a fake.
  3. (v.) To forge, counterfeit, or produce a false representation with intent to deceive.
    He was accused of faking his signature on the deed.

Forms

  • fakes
  • faked
  • faking

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguishing 'fake' from 'forgery' is important: 'fake' is broader and can include items or identities, while 'forgery' specifically involves false writing or documents.


Fake News

/ˈfeɪk nuːz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) False or misleading information presented as news, often to influence public opinion or obscure the truth.
    The court examined whether the blog post constituted fake news intended to defame the plaintiff.

Commentary

Legal analysis of fake news often hinges on intent and the impact on reputational or public order rights, requiring careful differentiation from protected speech.


Fall Guy

/ˈfɔːl ɡaɪ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who is wrongly blamed or punished for a crime or wrongdoing to protect the real perpetrator.
    The defendant claimed to be a fall guy, insisting the true criminal was someone else.

Forms

  • fall guy
  • fall guys

Commentary

Commonly used to describe a party unjustly held responsible, the term is informal and often appears in criminal law contexts involving wrongful blame.


Fallacy

/ˈfæləsi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A mistaken belief or error in reasoning that weakens an argument, often used to identify faulty legal reasoning.
    The attorney pointed out the fallacy in the opposing counsel's argument to the judge.

Commentary

In legal writing and argumentation, recognizing fallacies is crucial for maintaining sound and persuasive advocacy.


Fallacy Fallacy

/ˈfæləsi ˈfæləsi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An error in reasoning that occurs when one wrongly assumes that an argument contains a logical fallacy, thus dismissing it without proper analysis.
    The court cautioned against committing the fallacy fallacy by rejecting expert testimony solely because it contained minor logical flaws.

Commentary

The fallacy fallacy warns against dismissing a valid argument solely because it appears fallacious; in legal contexts, this is important to avoid premature rejection of arguments or evidence.


False

/ˈfɔːls/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Not true or correct; erroneous in a legal context, often relating to misrepresentation or mistaken fact.
    The contract was void due to a false statement made by one party.
  2. (adj.) Intended to deceive; fraudulent or counterfeit in law.
    He was charged with making false claims to obtain insurance benefits.

Commentary

Use carefully to distinguish factual inaccuracy from legal deceit; in drafting, specify whether 'false' refers to an objective fact or an intent to deceive.


False Accusation

/ˈfɔːls əˌkjuːˈzeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An assertion made deliberately without basis, claiming that someone has committed a wrongdoing, often with intent to harm reputation or cause legal consequences.
    The plaintiff filed a lawsuit in response to the false accusation of theft.

Forms

  • false accusations

Commentary

False accusations commonly arise in civil and criminal contexts; distinguishing them from honest errors is key for legal remedies.


False Advertising

/ˈfɔːls ˌædvərˈtaɪzɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act of making deceptive, misleading, or untrue statements in advertising to induce consumers to purchase products or services.
    The company was sued for false advertising after claiming their product cured diseases without scientific proof.

Forms

  • false advertisings

Commentary

False advertising claims frequently arise under consumer protection laws and require showing the advertisement is likely to mislead a reasonable consumer.


False Arrest

/ˈfɔːls əˈrɛst/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The unlawful restraint or detention of a person by one without legal authority or justification.
    The plaintiff sued the officer for false arrest after being detained without cause.

Forms

  • false arrest
  • false arrests

Commentary

False arrest is often construed as a subset of false imprisonment, focusing specifically on the unlawful arrest or detention component.


False Claims

/ˈfɔls kleɪmz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Representations or assertions of fact that are untrue and made to obtain some benefit, often related to fraud against government programs.
    The company was sued for submitting false claims to secure government reimbursement.

Forms

  • false claims
  • false claim

Commentary

False claims frequently arise in contexts governed by the False Claims Act; precise delineation of 'false' is critical to liability.


False Claims Act

/ˈfɔːl s kleɪmz ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal law that imposes liability on persons and companies who defraud governmental programs, often used to combat fraud against government contracts or healthcare programs.
    The company was sued under the False Claims Act for submitting fraudulent invoices to Medicare.

Forms

  • false claims act
  • false claim acts

Commentary

The False Claims Act is notable for its qui tam provisions allowing private individuals to bring suit on behalf of the government.


False Equivalence

/ˈfɔːls ɪˌkwɪvələns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A logical fallacy asserting that two legally or factually distinct situations are equivalent, misleadingly equating them in argument or analysis.
    The attorney warned the jury against false equivalence between the defendant's actions and unrelated incidents.

Forms

  • false equivalences

Commentary

False equivalence often appears in legal argumentation as a reasoning error; identifying it is crucial for maintaining clarity in legal analysis and argument.


False Impersonation

/ˈfɔːls ˌɪmpərˌsəˈneɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act of falsely assuming another person's identity to deceive, defraud, or gain unauthorized benefits.
    The defendant was charged with false impersonation after using a stolen identity to obtain credit.

Commentary

False impersonation statutes vary; precise elements often require proof the defendant knowingly assumed another's identity with intent to deceive or defraud.


False Imprisonment

/ˈfɔːls ɪmˈprɪzənmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The unlawful restraint of a person's freedom of movement without consent or legal justification.
    The plaintiff sued for false imprisonment after being locked in a room against her will.

Forms

  • false imprisonment
  • false imprisonments

Commentary

False imprisonment involves total restraint; partial restrictions may not qualify. Clear boundaries of confinement matter in proving the claim.


False Instrument

/ˈfɔːls ˈɪnstrəmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A document or record that is forged or fraudulently altered with the intent to deceive or mislead.
    The defendant was charged with creating a false instrument to defraud the bank.
  2. (n.) A legal instrument intended to be used as evidence that is false in whole or in part.
    Presentation of a false instrument in court can lead to severe penalties.

Forms

  • false instruments

Commentary

Commonly appears in statutes addressing fraud and forgery; precise statutory language varies by jurisdiction.


False Light

/ˈfɔːls laɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A privacy tort involving the publication of misleading information that falsely portrays someone in a highly offensive or embarrassing way to the public.
    The celebrity sued the magazine for false light after they published a distorted story implying misconduct.

Commentary

False light claims require that the portrayal be misleading and offensive but do not necessarily have to prove defamatory falsehoods, distinguishing it from defamation.


False Memory

/ˈfɔːls ˈmɛməri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A recollection of an event or detail that is factually incorrect but believed to be true by the witness or party.
    The defendant's testimony was challenged due to the presence of a false memory.

Forms

  • false memory
  • false memories

Commentary

False memories are significant in legal contexts due to their potential impact on eyewitness testimony credibility and the reliability of witness accounts.


False Personation

/ˈfɔːls ˌpɜːrsəˈneɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The criminal act of falsely assuming the identity of another person to deceive or commit fraud.
    He was charged with false personation for voting in someone else's name.

Commentary

False personation is distinct from general impersonation in that it specifically involves assuming another's identity with intent to deceive or defraud.


False Pretenses

/ˈfɔːls ˈprɛtɛnsɪz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A fraudulent act by which a person obtains property or money by misrepresenting a material fact with intent to deceive and defraud the owner.
    The defendant was convicted of obtaining cash through false pretenses by lying about the product's authenticity.

Commentary

False pretenses require an intentional misrepresentation of a past or existing fact, distinguishing it from innocent mistakes or future promises.


False Representation

/ˈfɔːls ˌrɛprɪzɛnˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A knowingly untrue or misleading statement made to induce another to act or refrain from acting, often forming grounds for fraud or misrepresentation claims.
    The plaintiff alleged damages caused by the defendant's false representation of the product's safety.

Commentary

False representation often underpins fraudulent misrepresentation claims; drafters should specify intent and reliance to clarify liability.


False Statement

/ˈfɔːls ˈsteɪtmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A declaration that is untrue and made with knowledge of its falsity or reckless disregard for the truth, often punishable under law when made under oath or in official matters.
    The witness was charged for making a false statement during the trial.
  2. (n.) An assertion in a legal document or communication that is misleading or incorrect, which can lead to civil liability or penalties.
    Filing a false statement on tax returns may result in fines or prosecution.

Forms

  • false statements

Commentary

The term 'false statement' is often distinguished by context—criminal law typically addresses knowingly false sworn statements, while civil law focuses on misrepresentations in documents; clarity in specifying the legal context is important when drafting definitions or legal text.


False Swearing

/ˈfɔːls ˈswɛrɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The criminal act of making a false oath, typically under oath in a judicial proceeding.
    He was charged with false swearing after lying during the deposition.

Forms

  • false swearings

Commentary

False swearing is generally treated as a lesser offense than perjury, focusing on false oaths made outside formal trial testimony, such as in affidavits or sworn statements.


False Testimony

/ˈfɔːls ˈtɛstɪməni/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A statement made under oath that is knowingly false, constituting a criminal act in legal contexts.
    The witness was charged with false testimony after admitting to lying in court.

Commentary

False testimony is a key element in perjury cases and must be demonstrated as intentionally false under oath to be prosecutable.


Falsehood

/ˈfɔːlshʊd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An untrue statement made knowingly to deceive, often relevant in fraud or defamation contexts.
    The plaintiff claimed damages due to the defendant's falsehood in the contract negotiations.
  2. (n.) A misrepresentation that can give rise to legal liability if it induces action or harm.
    Liability was established because the falsehood directly caused financial loss.

Forms

  • falsehoods

Commentary

Falsehood is often central to claims involving deceit; precise proof of intentional untruth is crucial for establishing liability.


Falsely

/ˈfɔːlsli/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) In a manner that is untrue or deceptive, typically in the context of statements or representations made with intent or resultant legal consequences.
    The defendant was charged for falsely claiming ownership of the property.

Commentary

Used primarily to modify verbs indicating the commission of acts involving untruthfulness; crucial in distinguishing legally relevant deception from mere error.


Falseness

/ˈfɔːlsnəs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The quality or state of being false, including inaccuracy, untruthfulness, or deceitfulness in a legal context.
    The falseness of the witness's statement was central to the fraud case.

Commentary

Falseness often pertains to the truthfulness of evidence or statements in legal proceedings and may affect credibility or liability.


Falsification

/ˌfɔːlsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act of altering, fabricating, or forging a document or other evidence with intent to deceive or mislead in legal contexts.
    The defendant was charged with falsification of financial records.
  2. (n.) The deliberate misrepresentation or distortion of facts to influence legal proceedings or official records.
    Falsification of witness testimony can result in perjury charges.

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish falsification as intentional deceit involving documents or facts, often overlapping with forgery but broader in application.


Falsity

/ˈfɔːlsɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The quality or state of being false, especially in a legal context where a statement or representation is untrue or misleading.
    The plaintiff proved the falsity of the defendant's claim during the trial.

Commentary

Falsity often appears in defamation and fraud cases to establish the untruth of a statement; clarity in specifying the nature of falsity is crucial in pleadings and evidentiary requirements.


Fame

/ˈfeɪm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The public reputation or renown of a person, often considered in defamation or privacy law contexts.
    The plaintiff claimed damages for harm to her fame caused by false statements.

Commentary

In legal contexts, fame primarily relates to reputation and privacy rights, especially concerning defamation and the right of publicity.


Familial

/fəˈmɪliəl/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Relating to or characteristic of a family or hereditary lineage, especially in legal contexts concerning inheritance or family rights.
    The court considered the familial relationships when determining the rightful heir.

Commentary

Used primarily to describe matters involving family connections or hereditary transmission; often appears in legal contexts involving succession, custody, or family disputes.


Familial Homicide

/fuh-MIL-ee-uhl homicide/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The unlawful killing of a family member by another family member, often involving considerations of intent, domestic relationships, and motive.
    The defendant was charged with familial homicide after unlawfully killing his sibling.

Commentary

Familial homicide is distinguished from general homicide by the familial relationship between perpetrator and victim, which may impact charges and sentencing.


Familicide

/ˈfæməlɪsaɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act or crime of killing multiple members of one's own family.
    The defendant was charged with familicide after murdering his spouse and children.

Commentary

Familicide often involves complex legal and psychological considerations, distinguishing it from other forms of homicide due to the familial relationship between perpetrator and victims.


Family

/ˈfæmɪli/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A group consisting of parents and their children living together as a unit, recognized in law for rights and obligations.
    The law grants custody rights to the mother as head of the family.
  2. (n.) A broader legal category including individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption, affecting inheritance and marital benefits.
    Family members are entitled to inherit in the absence of a will.
  3. (n.) In some jurisdictions, an economic unit sharing a household and resources, relevant in tax and social welfare law.
    The family claimed tax deductions based on their combined income.

Forms

  • families

Commentary

The term 'family' varies by context and jurisdiction; legal definitions often extend beyond biological ties to include adoption and marital relations. Drafting should specify the applicable legal scope and status of relationships.


Family Court

/ˈfæmɪli kɔːrt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A specialized court with jurisdiction over matters such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic relations.
    The Family Court issued a custody order favoring the mother.

Forms

  • family court
  • family courts

Commentary

Family courts predominantly handle cases involving familial and domestic issues, often with a more informal procedure than other courts.


Family Crest

/ˈfæmɪli krɛst/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A hereditary emblem or heraldic device legally registered or recognized to represent a family or lineage, often used in legal documents to establish identity or lineage rights.
    The family crest was submitted as evidence to establish her claim to the estate.

Forms

  • family crest
  • family crests

Commentary

Usage of a family crest in legal contexts often involves proof of lineage or inheritance rights; accuracy in establishing the authorized design is crucial.


Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

/ˈfæmɪli ˌɛdʒʊˈkeɪʃənəl raɪts ənd ˈprɪvəsi ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal law that protects the privacy of student education records and grants parents certain rights regarding their children's educational information.
    Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, parents can access their child's educational records.

Forms

  • family educational rights and privacy act

Commentary

Often abbreviated as FERPA; important to distinguish from other privacy statutes when addressing educational data confidentiality.


Family Law

/ˈfæmɪli lɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The branch of law dealing with matters related to familial relationships, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption.
    She specialized in family law to help clients navigate divorce proceedings.
  2. (n.) Legal statutes and case law governing rights and obligations arising from family relationships.
    Family law varies significantly between jurisdictions.

Commentary

Family law encompasses a broad set of legal issues focused on interpersonal and domestic relationships, often requiring sensitivity to emotional and social factors in addition to legal analysis.


Family Law Order

/ˈfæmɪli lɔː ɔːrdər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A court order issued under family law statutes to regulate arrangements related to children, financial maintenance, property, or custody following family breakdown.
    The judge granted a family law order outlining the custody schedule for the children.

Forms

  • family law order
  • family law orders

Commentary

Family law orders are essential for enforcing legal rights in familial disputes; precise terminology distinguishes these from general court orders.


Family Services

/ˈfæmɪli ˈsɜːrvɪsɪz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Governmental or organizational programs providing support, protection, and resources for families, often including child welfare, counseling, and domestic assistance.
    The agency offers family services to assist with child custody and welfare concerns.

Forms

  • family services
  • family service

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'family services' often refer to state or agency programs aimed at protecting children and supporting families, particularly in relation to child welfare and domestic issues.


Family Support Enforcement

/ˈfæmɪli səˈpɔrt ɛnˈfɔrsmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal process designed to ensure that financial and other court-ordered supports for children and spouses are paid and enforced.
    Family support enforcement agencies help recover unpaid child support from noncustodial parents.

Forms

  • family support enforcement

Commentary

Often involves cooperation between state agencies to locate noncustodial parents and enforce payment through income withholding, liens, or other legal remedies.


Family Tree

/ˈfæmɪli triː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A genealogical chart representing family relationships, often used in legal contexts to establish lineage, inheritance rights, or kinship for estate and succession matters.
    The attorney reviewed the family tree to determine rightful heirs to the estate.

Forms

  • family trees

Commentary

In legal settings, a family tree is crucial for illustrating familial links relevant to inheritance, custody, or lineage disputes.


Family Violence

/ˈfæmɪli ˈvaɪələns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse committed by one family member against another.
    The court issued a restraining order due to evidence of family violence.
  2. (n.) A legal designation for acts of violence within domestic relationships triggering protective laws and interventions.
    Family violence statutes provide remedies for victims residing with their abusers.

Forms

  • family violence

Commentary

Family violence encompasses abuse among family members beyond intimate partners, often requiring specific statutory frameworks to address various victim relationships.


Famous

/ˈfeɪməs/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Widely known or recognized, especially in legal contexts when referring to prior cases, precedents, or persons of established reputation.
    The famous case set a precedent for future contract disputes.

Commentary

In legal drafting, "famous" often relates to precedents or persons whose recognition is relevant to the case's context, but it is rarely a substantive legal term by itself.


Famouser

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Comparative form of famous; more widely known or renowned.
    The defendant became famouser after the landmark case was publicized.

Commentary

Use caution as 'famouser' is a nonstandard comparative form; prefer 'more famous' in formal legal writing.


Famousest

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Superlative form of famous, meaning most renowned or well-known.
    She is the famousest lawyer in the city, recognized across all courts.

Commentary

'Famousest' is a nonstandard superlative form; in formal legal writing, 'most famous' is preferred.


Fanatic

/ˈfænətɪk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person exhibiting excessive and uncritical zeal, especially in politics or religion, potentially affecting legal judgments about bias or motivation.
    The court examined whether the defendant acted as a fanatic, influencing the nature of the crime.
  2. (adj.) Displaying extreme and unreasoning enthusiasm or zeal, possibly relevant to assessing credibility or intent in legal contexts.
    The witness gave a fanatic testimony that was challenged for partiality.

Forms

  • fanatic
  • fanatics

Commentary

In legal texts, 'fanatic' often concerns motive or bias affecting intent, thus influencing assessments of mens rea or credibility.


Fanatical

/fəˈnætɪkəl/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Exhibiting excessive zeal or obsessive enthusiasm, often to the point of irrationality, particularly in legal or ideological contexts.
    The jury was warned against fanatical adherence to a single theory of the case without considering evidence impartially.

Forms

  • fanatical

Commentary

In legal drafting and analysis, describing behavior as fanatical usually conveys an extreme, potentially prejudicial or irrational commitment that may influence legal reasoning or impartiality.


Fanaticism

/fəˈnætɪsɪzəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Excessive zeal or obsessive enthusiasm in support of a cause, often disregarding rational argument or legal boundaries.
    The defendant's fanaticism led to extreme actions that breached legal statutes.

Commentary

In legal contexts, fanaticism may underpin motivations behind unlawful acts influenced by ideological fervor, useful in understanding motive but not a legal defense itself.


Fast Track

/ˈfæst træk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An expedited legal or administrative process designed to accelerate resolution or approval.
    The court granted the case fast track status to ensure a swift verdict.
  2. (v.) To expedite a case or procedure through an accelerated process.
    The agency decided to fast track the permit application due to its urgency.

Forms

  • fast-tracking
  • fast tracked
  • fast tracks

Commentary

Often used in litigation and regulatory contexts to reduce time to decision, careful drafting is needed to specify eligibility criteria and scope for fast track procedures.


Fast-Track

/ˈfæstˌtræk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An expedited procedure in legal or regulatory contexts to accelerate decision-making or processing of cases or applications.
    The court agreed to place the case on a fast-track to avoid unnecessary delays.
  2. (v.) To expedite or prioritize the handling of a legal matter or application to achieve faster disposition.
    The agency fast-tracked the patent application due to its public importance.

Forms

  • fast-tracks
  • fast-tracked
  • fast-tracking

Commentary

Commonly used in litigation and administrative law to reduce delays; drafters should clarify criteria and scope for applying fast-track procedures.


Fast-Track Litigation

/ˈfæstˌtræk ˌlɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procedural mechanism that expedites the resolution of legal disputes by shortening standard litigation timelines.
    The court implemented fast-track litigation to reduce case backlogs and promote quicker settlements.

Commentary

Fast-track litigation is generally established by court rules or agreement to accelerate case disposition, balancing speed with fairness.


Fastidious

/fas-tid-ee-uhs/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Showing meticulous attention to detail, often in legal document drafting or evidence review.
    The fastidious lawyer reviewed every clause to avoid ambiguity.
  2. (adj.) Demanding or exerting excessive care or precision, sometimes to an impractical degree in legal contexts.
    Her fastidious approach delayed the contract finalization but reduced errors.

Forms

  • fastidious

Commentary

Frequently used to describe a careful and thorough approach in legal document preparation and case analysis; important to balance thoroughness with efficiency.


Fatalities

/ˌfeɪtəˈlɪtiz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Deaths resulting from an accident, disaster, or other incident, often used in legal contexts to quantify loss of life attributable to negligence or liability.
    The report detailed the fatalities caused by the industrial accident.

Forms

  • fatality

Commentary

Typically used in plural to enumerate deaths; often appears in statutes and case law involving liability assessments.


Fate

/ˈfeɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The predetermined course of events often considered beyond human control, sometimes referenced in legal contexts relating to inevitability or force majeure.
    The contract was voided due to a fate analogous to an act of God.

Forms

  • fate

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'fate' is rarely a formal term but may be alluded to conceptually when discussing events outside parties' control affecting obligations.


Fatigue

/fəˈtiːɡ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A state of physical or mental weariness impairing capacity to perform duties, relevant in labor law and occupational health.
    The worker claimed compensation due to fatigue caused by excessive overtime.
  2. (n.) In contract and procedural law, the exhaustion of legal remedies or defenses.
    The plaintiff's claim was barred by the doctrine of exhaustion of remedies, akin to legal fatigue.

Forms

  • fatigue
  • fatigues

Commentary

In legal drafting, clearly distinguish between physical/mental fatigue affecting duties and procedural 'fatigue' analogous to exhaustion doctrines.


Fault

/ˈfɔːlt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Responsibility for a breach of duty or error leading to legal liability.
    The court found the defendant at fault for the accident.
  2. (n.) A defect or imperfection in property, contract, or conduct affecting legal rights or obligations.
    The contract was voidable due to a fault in the agreement.

Forms

  • faults

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'fault' often implies culpability but should be defined contextually to clarify standards of responsibility.


Fault Allocation

/ˈfɔːlt ˌæl.əˈkeɪ.ʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process in law or contract where parties determine responsibility for mistakes or breaches causing harm or loss.
    The contract clearly specified the fault allocation between the supplier and the distributor in case of product failure.

Forms

  • fault allocation

Commentary

Often appears in contracts and tort contexts; precise language in fault allocation clauses can limit disputes over responsibility.


Faustian Bargain

/ˈfɔːstɪən ˈbɑːrɡən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A pact or agreement made at an extreme moral or ethical cost, where one party sacrifices core values or rights for some benefit, often used metaphorically in legal ethics and contract discussion.
    The lawyer was accused of making a Faustian bargain by compromising client confidentiality for a lucrative settlement.

Forms

  • faustian bargain
  • faustian bargains

Commentary

The term is primarily metaphorical in law, used to caution against agreements that compromise ethical principles for short-term gain.


Faustian Pact

/ˈfaʊstiən pækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A metaphorical or literary term describing an agreement where a party sacrifices ethical or moral standards, often for power or gain, used in legal and ethical discussions.
    The whistleblower argued that the contract represented a Faustian pact, forcing the company to abandon its ethical obligations.

Forms

  • faustian pact

Commentary

Used metaphorically in legal contexts to describe agreements involving compromise of ethics or principles; not a formal legal doctrine but valuable in ethical critique and analysis.


Favoritism

/ˈfeɪvərɪtɪzəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Preferential treatment of a person or group based on bias rather than merit, often leading to unfairness or discrimination within legal or organizational contexts.
    The company's hiring practices were investigated for favoritism toward relatives of senior executives.

Commentary

In legal drafting, clearly distinguishing favoritism from lawful preferential treatment or reasonable accommodations is important to avoid ambiguity.


Fax

/fæks/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A document transmitted electronically via a facsimile machine, often used for legal notices or contracts.
    The parties exchanged the signed contract via fax to expedite the agreement process.
  2. (v.) To send a document electronically by means of a facsimile machine.
    She faxed the signed affidavit to the court clerk before the deadline.

Forms

  • faxes
  • faxed
  • faxing

Commentary

In legal contexts, faxes are often admissible as evidence and used for timely communication; however, ensure proper authentication when relying on faxed documents.

Glossary – FA Terms