Browse full definitions for every FE term in the Amicus glossary.
/ˈfiːəlti/
The knight pledged fealty to his lord before receiving his lands.
Fealty specifically denotes a formal, often ceremonial oath of loyalty in feudal contexts, distinct from general loyalty or allegiance.
/ˈfɪər/
The contract was signed under fear, which may render it voidable.
The court found the agreement invalid due to the plaintiff's fear induced by threats.
The landlord feared that the tenant would not comply with the lease terms.
In legal drafting, distinguishing between fear as a psychological state and fear induced by unlawful threats (duress) is crucial for assessing contract validity.
/ˈfiːzəns/
The court examined the feasance of the contract to determine compliance.
Liability depended on whether the defendant's feasance was properly conducted.
Feasance is often contrasted with nonfeasance and misfeasance, particularly in tort discussions about duty and breach.
/ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/
The court considered the feasibility of enforcing the arbitration clause before proceeding.
The feasibility of complying with the zoning laws was a critical factor in the permit approval process.
Feasibility in legal contexts often involves evaluating enforceability and compliance risks, not solely economic or technical concerns.
/ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti ˈstʌdi/
The feasibility study revealed potential regulatory hurdles for the construction project.
Typically conducted early in project planning, a feasibility study informs decision-makers about legal, financial, and operational risks.
/ˈfiːzəbl/
The court found the proposed settlement to be feasible given the circumstances.
In legal contexts, feasibility often combines practical implementation with compliance to legal standards, making it important to assess both aspects in contract and compliance analyses.
/ˈfiːzəbli/
The contract must be feasibly executed within the specified timeframe.
Used to assess the practical legal potential of actions or provisions; often appears in contract and procedural contexts to emphasize realistic implementation.
/ˈfɛðər/
The defendant's family crest included a feather as a symbol of honor.
The contract stipulated the requirement to feather the ceremonial garments precisely.
In legal contexts, 'feather' typically appears in symbolic or heraldic use rather than substantive legal doctrine.
/ˈfiːtʃər/
The arbitration feature in the contract required disputes to be resolved out of court.
The presence of a water feature was considered when assessing the property's market value.
In legal drafting, clearly identifying a 'feature' helps specify terms that influence rights, duties, or interpretations in agreements and statutes.
/ˈfedərəl/
The federal government enacted new regulations that apply nationwide.
Federal laws supersede conflicting state laws.
Use 'federal' to denote concepts connected to national authority or systems dividing power between national and sub-national entities in legal contexts.
/ˈfɛdərəl əbˈstɪnʃən ˈdɒktrɪn/
The federal abstention doctrine often requires federal courts to stay or dismiss cases to respect state sovereignty.
Typically invoked to promote federalism and avoid duplicative litigation, the doctrine includes several specific abstention types, each addressing distinct federal-state concerns.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən/
The agency followed strict regulations during the federal acquisition of new computer systems.
Federal acquisition typically involves compliance with complex regulations, notably the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), mandating thorough understanding for effective legal and administrative management.
/ˈfedərəl əˈkwɪzɪʃən ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃən/
All contractors must comply with the Federal Acquisition Regulation when bidding on government contracts.
Cited as FAR, it standardizes procurement to promote fairness and efficiency; drafters should use its exact citations to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈeɪdʒənsi/
The Environmental Protection Agency is a federal agency responsible for regulating pollution.
The term typically refers to executive branch entities; legislative and judicial bodies are generally excluded from this classification.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈeɪdʒənt/
The federal agent conducted an investigation into the suspected smuggling ring.
The term specifically denotes an officer empowered at the federal level, distinguishing from state or local agents.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈænɪməl prəˈtɛkʃən ˌrɛɡjəˈleɪʃənz/
The Federal Animal Protection Regulations set standards for shelter conditions and prohibit cruelty to animals.
These regulations often derive authority from congressional acts and are implemented by agencies like the USDA; drafters should specify the enabling statute for clarity.
/ˈfɛd(ə)rəl əˌpɔɪntmənt/
The senator was pleased with her federal appointment to the judiciary.
Typically involves formal nomination by the president and confirmation by the Senate when required; usage often distinguishes from state or local appointments.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈæsɛt/
The government seized the federal asset as part of the court order.
In legal drafting, distinguishing federal assets from state or private assets is critical for jurisdictional and regulatory clarity.
/ˈfɛdərəl əˈsɪstəns/
The nonprofit organization applied for federal assistance to fund its community health programs.
Federal assistance typically involves statutory or administrative authorization, with funds or resources allocated under specific federal programs; drafting should specify eligibility and compliance conditions clearly.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈɔːdɪt/
The company underwent a federal audit to ensure compliance with federal financial reporting standards.
A federal audit often follows specific standards such as those in the Single Audit Act; clarity in scope and authority is crucial when drafting related clauses.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈeɪviˌeɪʃən ædˌmɪnɪstreɪʃən/
The Federal Aviation Administration enforces regulations to maintain the safety of commercial flights.
Often abbreviated as FAA, this agency's regulatory authority extends to all aspects of civil aviation within the United States.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈeɪviˌeɪʃən ˌrɛɡjəˈleɪʃənz/
Pilots must comply with the Federal Aviation Regulations to legally operate aircraft in U.S. airspace.
FARs are a key source of regulatory compliance in aviation law, and drafters should reference the specific part and section numbers for clarity.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈbɛnəfɪts/
She applied for federal benefits to cover her healthcare expenses.
Veterans are entitled to specific federal benefits for their service.
Federal benefits often have eligibility conditions strictly defined by statute or regulation, and may vary substantially from state-administered benefits.
/ˈfɛd(ə)rəl ˈbʌdʒɪt/
The federal budget allocates funds for national defense, healthcare, and education.
In legal and governmental contexts, the federal budget is central to appropriations law and fiscal oversight, often influencing statutory enactments and executive implementation.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈbjʊəroʊ ʌv ɪnˌvɛstəˈɡeɪʃən/
The Federal Bureau of Investigation opened a case to investigate the cybercrime.
Often abbreviated as FBI, the term denotes a specific U.S. agency; avoid confusion with state or local investigative bodies.
/ˈfedərəl koʊdz/
The federal codes include statutes governing immigration and national security.
The term is commonly used to refer specifically to the United States Code but may also denote compilations of federal statutes more generally.
/ˈfedərəl kəˌmjunɪˈkeɪʃənz kəˈmɪʃən/
The Federal Communications Commission enforces regulations to manage spectrum allocation and broadcast standards.
Often abbreviated as FCC, the agency's regulatory scope is central to telecommunications law and policy.
/ˈfedərəl kənˈsɛnt/
The construction project cannot begin without federal consent due to its environmental impact.
Federal consent often arises in administrative and constitutional contexts, emphasizing the need for explicit federal authorization before certain activities or transactions are legally valid.
/ˈfedərəl ˌkɑnstɪˈtjuʃən/
The Federal Constitution grants specific powers to the national government while reserving others to the states.
The term typically refers to the highest legal document in a federal system; drafting should clearly distinguish between constitutional provisions that allocate powers among federal and state entities.
/ˈfed(ə)rəl ˈkɒntrækt/
The company secured a federal contract to supply medical equipment to the military.
Federal contracts are subject to specific regulations and statutes, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which govern formation, performance, and dispute resolution.
/ˈfedərəl kɔːrt/
The federal court ruled that the statute was unconstitutional.
Typically refers to courts created by the U.S. Constitution or Congress with jurisdiction over federal matters; distinct from state courts which handle state law issues.
/ˈfedərəl ˈkrɛdɪt ˈjuːnjən/
The federal credit union offered lower interest rates than traditional banks.
The term specifically denotes credit unions chartered under federal law, distinguished from state-chartered credit unions; usage often relevant in regulatory, banking, and financial legal contexts.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈkrɪmɪnəl ˈstætʃuːt/
The defendant was charged under a federal criminal statute for fraud.
Typically, federal criminal statutes specify offenses and punishments applicable throughout the United States under federal jurisdiction, distinct from state criminal laws.
/ˈfɛdərəl dɪˈpɒzɪt ɪnˈʃʊərəns ˌkɔːrpəˈreɪʃən/
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insures bank deposits up to a certain limit to protect consumers.
The FDIC plays a critical role in banking regulation and financial consumer protection; its legal authority and operations are established by federal statutes such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈdɪstrɪkt/
The federal district is where the national capital is established.
Cases arising in that region are heard in the appropriate federal district court.
The term covers both geographical and judicial meanings; context clarifies whether it refers to a national capital area or a federal court jurisdiction.
/ˈfɛd(ə)rəl drʌg/
Possession of a federal drug without prescription can lead to criminal charges.
The term 'federal drug' specifically references substances regulated under U.S. federal statutes, distinct from state-level controlled substances law.
/ˈfɛdərəl drʌg lɔː/
The federal drug law prohibits unauthorized manufacturing of narcotics.
Violations of federal drug law can result in severe criminal penalties.
Federal drug law encompasses both substantive provisions and procedural enforcement rules; precise citation of statutes like the Controlled Substances Act is advisable for legal clarity.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˌɛdʒʊˈkeɪʃən lɔː/
Federal education law mandates equal access to education for all students regardless of disability.
Federal education law primarily governs national standards for public education and intersects with civil rights and administrative law; drafters should note its impact on state education systems and funding mechanisms.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪˈlɛkʃən kæmˈpeɪn ækt/
The Federal Election Campaign Act requires candidates to disclose contributions and expenditures.
The Act is foundational in U.S. campaign finance law; drafters should note its emphasis on disclosure and contribution limits.
/ˈfɛd(ə)rəl ɪˈlɛkʃən kəˈmɪʃən/
The Federal Election Commission audits political campaign finance reports to ensure compliance with the law.
The term typically refers to the specific U.S. agency enforcing election finance regulations; in drafting, clarity is key to distinguish it from general electoral commissions in other jurisdictions.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi ˈmænɪdʒmənt/
Federal emergency management ensures rapid mobilization of resources during natural disasters.
The Federal Emergency Management provides critical support following hurricanes and floods.
Often used interchangeably to denote both the organizational entity (FEMA) and the broader system of federal disaster response coordination.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪˈmərʤənsi ˈmænɪʤmənt ˈeɪʤənsi/
The Federal Emergency Management Agency provided aid after the hurricane.
Often abbreviated as FEMA; statutory authority derives from the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
/ˈfedərəl ɪmˌplɔɪi/
The federal employee filed a grievance under the Merit Systems Protection Board procedures.
The term 'federal employee' is used broadly in U.S. federal law to designate workers employed by federal agencies; legal contexts often focus on distinctions in rights and protections compared to state or private employees.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɛmˈplɔɪmənt/
She sought federal employment to contribute to national policy development.
The term broadly covers employment within all federal entities; drafting should specify the agency or nature of federal work when relevant.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈɛnərdʒi ˌrɛgjʊˈleɪtəri kəˈmɪʃən/
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approved the new pipeline project to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Often abbreviated as FERC, this agency plays a key role in overseeing energy markets and infrastructure, so clarity in references is crucial in legal drafting.
/ˈfedərəl ɛnˈfɔːrsmənt/
Federal enforcement of environmental regulations has increased in recent years.
Typically refers to actions undertaken by federal entities distinct from state or local enforcement; important to distinguish scope of authority when drafting or interpreting statutes.
/ˈfedərəl ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛntl ˌrɛɡjəˈleɪʃən/
The company must comply with federal environmental regulations before beginning construction.
Federal environmental regulations often implement statutes through detailed administrative rules and are enforceable by federal agencies; drafters should specify the governing statute and agency for clarity.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪɡˈzɛkjətɪv/
The Federal Executive is tasked with executing laws passed by Congress.
Use the term to denote the entire federal administrative apparatus under the President, distinguishing it from the legislative and judicial branches.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪɡˈzɛkjətɪv dɪˈpɑːrtmənts/
The Department of Justice is one of the federal executive departments tasked with upholding the law.
Federal executive departments constitute the main organizational structure of the executive branch; precision in identifying their authority is key in statutory drafting and constitutional analysis.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈfɪskəl jɪər/
The agency must submit its budget request before the start of the federal fiscal year on October 1.
The federal fiscal year is distinct from the calendar year and is crucial in government appropriations and financial planning contexts.
/ˈfɛdərəl fuːd/
The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act governs the safety of federal food products.
Often used in context with drug regulation laws; 'Federal Food' primarily refers to food items subject to federal oversight, distinct from state laws.
/ˈfedərəl ˈfʌndɪŋ/
The university received federal funding to conduct cancer research.
Federal funding often requires compliance with specific regulations and reporting.
Federal funding usually involves statutory authorization and administrative conditions that influence program implementation and compliance enforcement.
/ˈfɛdərəɫ fʌndz reɪt/
The Federal Funds Rate influences monetary policy decisions and affects lending rates across the economy.
The Federal Funds Rate is a key benchmark in U.S. monetary law and banking regulation; precise understanding aids in interpreting central bank communications and financial legislation.
/ˈfedərəl ˈɡʌvərnmənt/
The Federal Government enacted new regulations to address interstate commerce.
The Federal Government includes the President, federal agencies, and the military.
In legal contexts, the term often distinguishes national authority from state or local entities; clarity is essential when drafting to specify jurisdictional scope.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɡrænt/
The nonprofit organization received a federal grant to support its community outreach program.
Federal grants typically require adherence to federal regulations and reporting requirements; clear drafting of terms ensures compliance and proper fund use.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɡrænts ˈmænɪdʒmənt/
Federal grants management requires detailed record-keeping and reporting to maintain eligibility for future funding.
Effective federal grants management demands understanding both the legal obligations imposed by grant conditions and the administrative procedures necessary for proper fund stewardship.
/ˈfɛdərəl hɛlθ əˈdʒɛnsi/
The Federal Health Agency issued new guidelines to control the epidemic.
Typically refers to a central governmental body with regulatory powers over health matters; often codified in federal statutes and regulations.
/ˈfedərəl hɛlθ ˈproʊˌgræm/
Medicare is a well-known federal health program aimed at supporting elderly citizens.
The term typically denotes federally administered or funded health initiatives; clarify scope and eligibility criteria for precision in drafting.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈhaɪˌweɪ ədˌmɪnɪˈstreɪʃən/
The Federal Highway Administration allocates funds to states for road safety improvements.
In legal drafting, the Federal Highway Administration is often referenced in statutes and regulations governing federal funding and standards for highway projects.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈhaɪˌweɪz/
Federal highways facilitate commerce and travel between states under federal regulation.
The term specifically implicates federal authority and funding, differentiating these roads from state or local highways; legal texts often link them to federal statutes governing transportation infrastructure.
/ˈfɛdərəl hoʊm loʊn bæŋk/
The Federal Home Loan Bank supports housing finance by lending to local banks.
Often referenced in contexts involving housing finance and banking regulation; important to distinguish from similar institutions like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈhaʊzɪŋ ˌædmɪnɪˈstreɪʃən/
The Federal Housing Administration insures mortgages to encourage lenders to offer favorable terms to homebuyers.
Often abbreviated as FHA, its role is critical in increasing home ownership by reducing lender risk through mortgage insurance.
/ˈfɛd·ər·əl ˈhaʊ·zɪŋ ˈpɒl·ɪ·si/
The federal housing policy includes programs to increase access to affordable homes.
Federal housing policy encompasses multiple statutes and administrative guidelines, often reflecting changing economic priorities and social goals; drafters should specify the program or statute when citing.
/ˈfedərəl ˈɪndiən lɔ/
Federal Indian Law regulates tribal sovereignty and the rights of Native American nations.
Federal Indian Law is a specialized area focusing on the unique legal status of Native American tribes; drafters should clearly distinguish tribal, federal, and state jurisdiction.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪnfərˈmeɪʃən sɪˈkjʊərɪti ˈmænɪdʒmənt ækt/
The agency must comply with the Federal Information Security Management Act to protect its data systems.
Refer to it as FISMA; the law sets the baseline for federal agencies' information security protocols and has been amended by FISMA 2014 to modernize security approaches.
/ˈfɛdərəl ɪnˈʃʊərəns kɒnˌtrɪbjuˈʃənz ækt/
Employers must withhold taxes under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act from employees’ wages.
Often abbreviated as FICA, this act requires employer and employee contributions and is pivotal in U.S. tax and social welfare law.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈdʒuːdɪʃəri/
The federal judiciary resolved the constitutional dispute between the state and federal government.
When drafting, specify the scope of courts within the federal judiciary to clarify jurisdiction.
/ˈfedərəl dʒʊəˈrɪsdɪkʃən/
The case falls under federal jurisdiction because it involves a question of constitutional law.
Federal jurisdiction primarily concerns the scope and limits of federal court authority, distinct from state jurisdiction; clarity in statutory and constitutional grants of jurisdiction is essential for legal accuracy.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈleɪbər rɪˈleɪʃənz ɔːˈθɔrɪti/
The Federal Labor Relations Authority issued a ruling to resolve the dispute between the federal employees and management.
Refer to the base term consistently; this agency uniquely governs labor relations in the federal sector, distinct from private labor law agencies.
/ˈfɛdərəl lænd/
The agency manages federal land to balance conservation and resource extraction.
Federal land typically includes national parks, forests, and other government-held areas, regulated distinctly from state or private lands.
/ˈfɛdərəl lænd ɡrænt/
The federal land grant enabled the railroad to acquire vast tracts of land for expansion.
Federal land grants often involve legislative acts and come with conditions tied to land use or development.
/ˈfɛdərəl lɔː/
Federal law preempts conflicting state statutes in matters within its jurisdiction.
Federal law operates within a hierarchical legal system and often overrides conflicting state laws under the Supremacy Clause.
/ˈfedərəl lɔː ˌɛnˈfɔːrsmənt/
Federal law enforcement agencies investigate crimes that cross state lines.
The term generally refers collectively to entities like the FBI, DEA, and ATF; precision is important when drafting to specify agency roles and jurisdiction.
/ˈfedərəl lɔː ˌɛnˈfɔːrsmənt əˈdʒɛnsi/
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is a prominent federal law enforcement agency.
The term denotes agencies with national jurisdiction, distinct from state or local law enforcement; drafting should ensure clear jurisdictional scope.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈlɔː ˌɛn.fɔːrsmənt ˈɒfəsər/
The federal law enforcement officer arrested the suspect for violating federal tax regulations.
The term specifically refers to officers operating under federal authority, distinguishing them from state or local law enforcement; commonly used in drafting to clarify jurisdiction and powers.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈlɛdʒɪsleɪʧər/
The Federal Legislature passed new environmental regulations last year.
The term denotes the legislature at the federal level in a federal system, distinct from state or provincial legislatures.
/ˈfedərəl ˈmɑːrʃəl/
The federal marshal ensured security during the high-profile trial.
The term specifically refers to officers under the U.S. Marshals Service who carry out judicial and law enforcement duties related to federal courts.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈɒfəsər/
The federal officer arrested the suspect for violating federal statutes.
The term specifically denotes officers acting under federal jurisdiction, distinguishing them from state or local officers.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈoʊpən ˈmɑrkɪt kəˈmɪti/
The Federal Open Market Committee meets regularly to determine the federal funds rate.
Commonly abbreviated as FOMC, this committee plays a key role in U.S. economic regulation and monetary policy implementation.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈɔrdər/
The court issued a federal order to cease all activities immediately.
The dairy producers complied with the federal order governing milk distribution in the region.
The term 'federal order' has both judicial and administrative regulatory applications; context distinguishes a judicially binding decree from regulatory price-setting directives in federal programs.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈpaʊər ækt/
The Federal Power Act empowers FERC to oversee electricity markets and ensure just and reasonable rates.
Commonly abbreviated as FPA; crucial for regulating interstate energy transmission and coordinating federal and state authority.
/ˈfɛdərəl priˈɛm(p)ʃən/
The federal preemption doctrine prevented the state from enforcing its statute that conflicted with federal regulations.
Federal preemption can be explicit in statutes or implied when Congress's intent to occupy the field is clear.
Federal preemption is central to conflicts between federal and state law; drafters should specify whether preemption is explicit or implied to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfɛdərəl prəˈsiːdʒərəl ruːl/
The Federal Procedural Rule requires parties to disclose evidence early in the trial process.
Federal procedural rules primarily regulate litigation processes and differ from substantive federal statutes; drafters should distinguish procedural mandates from substantive rights.
/ˈfedərəl ˈprɑːpərti/
The military base is classified as federal property and is subject to federal regulations.
Federal property is distinguished from state or private property by its ownership and the laws governing its use and disposition.
/ˈfɛdərəl prəˈsjuːtər/
The federal prosecutor presented evidence against the defendant in the trial.
The role of a federal prosecutor is distinct from state or local prosecutors due to jurisdiction and scope; usage often requires specifying the federal context.
/ˈfɛd(ə)rəl ˈkwɛstʃən ˌdʒʊərɪsdɪkʃən/
The plaintiff invoked federal question jurisdiction to bring the lawsuit in federal court.
Federal question jurisdiction is a key basis for federal court authority and requires that the plaintiff's claim arises under federal law, not simply that a federal issue is tangential.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˌrɛkəɡˈnɪʃən/
The tribe sought federal recognition to access certain benefits and protections.
Federal recognition established the validity of the agreement.
Federal recognition most commonly refers to the U.S. government's acknowledgment of Native American tribes, conferring specific legal and political rights; clarity in drafting should specify the context to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈrɛdʒɪstər/
The agency published its new regulation in the Federal Register.
The Federal Register serves as the primary source for notice-and-comment rulemaking and legal transparency in U.S. administrative law.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃən/
The Environmental Protection Agency issued a federal regulation to limit emissions from factories.
Federal regulations carry the force of law and are essential for the practical application of federal statutes; drafters should clearly distinguish regulations from statutes to avoid confusion.
/ˈfedərəl rɪˈzɜrv/
The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to curb inflation.
The term 'Federal Reserve' primarily refers to the U.S. central banking system; it is a proper noun commonly capitalized in legal and financial contexts.
/ˈfɛdərəl rɪˈzɜrv ækt/
The Federal Reserve Act empowered the Federal Reserve to influence credit and currency in the American economy.
The Federal Reserve Act is foundational in U.S. financial law, creating the Federal Reserve System and its broad regulatory powers.
/ˈfɛdərəl rɪˈzɜrv bæŋk/
The Federal Reserve Bank raised interest rates to curb inflation.
In legal contexts, references to a Federal Reserve Bank primarily concern its regulatory and monetary policy roles rather than commercial banking functions.
/ˈfɛdərəl rɪˈzɜrv bɔrd/
The Federal Reserve Board meets regularly to determine interest rate policies.
The term specifically refers to the main policy-making entity within the Federal Reserve System; legal texts often distinguish it from related bodies like the Federal Open Market Committee.
/ˈfɛdərəl rɪˈzɜrv ˈpɒlɪsi/
Federal Reserve policy plays a crucial role in controlling inflation and fostering economic growth.
Federal Reserve policy refers principally to the legally authorized actions of the Federal Reserve System; it shapes national economic conditions through regulatory and monetary instruments.
/ˈfɛdərəl rɪˈzɜrv ˈsɪstəm/
The Federal Reserve System raised interest rates to curb inflation.
Often referred to simply as "the Fed," the term encompasses the Board of Governors, regional Federal Reserve Banks, and the FOMC, each playing distinct roles.
/ˈfedərəl ruːl əv ˈbæŋkrəptsi prəˈsiːdʒər/
The Federal Rule of Bankruptcy Procedure outlines the steps for filing a bankruptcy petition.
These rules are designed to ensure uniformity and fairness in bankruptcy proceedings across federal courts.
/ˈfɛdɚəl rulz əv ˈsɪvəl prəˈsiːdʒɚ/
The plaintiff filed a motion under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to compel discovery.
These rules standardize litigation procedures across federal courts, critical for ensuring fair process and consistency.
/ˈfɛdərəl rulz əv ˈkrɪmɪnəl prəˈsiːdʒər/
The defendant's counsel cited the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to challenge the admissibility of evidence.
These rules provide standardized procedures to ensure fair and consistent administration of federal criminal justice.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈruːlz əv ˈɛvɪdəns/
The Federal Rules of Evidence standardize how evidence is presented in federal trials.
The Federal Rules of Evidence provide a uniform framework essential for trial practice and legal argumentation in federal courts, balancing probative value against prejudicial risk.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈseɪvɪŋz əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
The federal savings association expanded its mortgage lending operations last year.
Commonly known as a 'thrifts' or 'savings and loan associations,' these entities are regulated primarily by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency under federal law.
/ˈfedərəl sɪˈkjʊərɪti ɔːˈθɒrɪti/
The Federal Security Authority issued new guidelines on cybersecurity protocols.
Contracts with federal agencies require compliance with Federal Security Authority standards.
The term generally refers to a formal governmental entity governing national or federal security issues; precise powers and scope vary by jurisdiction.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈsɜrvɪs/
She dedicated twenty years to federal service before retiring.
The federal service ensures the implementation of national policies across all states.
In legal drafting, distinguish federal service as employment under federal authority from general public service to clarify jurisdiction and applicable regulations.
/ˈfɛdərəl steɪt/
The United States is composed of a federal state structure balancing power between the national and state governments.
The term emphasizes the constitutional division of authority between central and regional governments, important in drafting and interpreting federal constitutions.
/ˈfɛd.ɚ.əl ˈstætʃ.uːt/
The Clean Air Act is a federal statute aimed at reducing air pollution.
Federal statutes are primary sources of law at the national level and differ from state statutes and administrative regulations.
/ˈfedərəl ˈstudənt eɪd/
The student applied for federal student aid to cover tuition and living costs.
Federal student aid primarily includes grants, loans, and work-study programs, governed by federal statutes and regulations; precision in scope is key when drafting related documents.
/ˈfedərəl səbˈstænʃɪv rul/
The Environmental Protection Agency issued a federal substantive rule requiring stricter emissions standards.
Federal substantive rules differ from procedural rules by affecting rights and duties directly rather than governing process; clarity in drafting is essential to avoid confusion with procedural regulations.
/ˈfɛdərəl səˈplaɪ ˈskɛdʒəl/
The agency procured its office supplies through the Federal Supply Schedule to ensure compliance and cost-effectiveness.
The Federal Supply Schedule simplifies procurement by prearranging terms; drafters should clearly specify applicable schedules and contract scopes to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfɛdərəl tæks/
The federal tax on income must be filed annually.
Payroll taxes are part of the overall federal tax system.
The term 'federal tax' broadly covers all taxes levied by the national government, so its definition includes various tax types; distinguishing context is often necessary in legal drafting.
/ˈfɛdərəl tæks ˈeɪdʒənsi/
The Federal Tax Agency issued new guidelines on income tax reporting.
Typically refers to the central government body overseeing taxation; terminology may vary by jurisdiction.
/ˈfɛdərəl tæks lɔː/
The IRS enforces federal tax law to ensure compliance with income tax obligations.
Federal tax law primarily derives from the Internal Revenue Code and is enforced through administrative regulations and court decisions, making its understanding essential for compliance and tax planning.
/ˈfɛdərəl treɪd kəˈmɪʃən/
The Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against the company for deceptive advertising.
The term refers specifically to the U.S. federal agency; in legal drafting, capitalizing the full name distinguishes it as a proper noun.
/ˈfɛdərəl treɪd kəmˈmɪʃən ækt/
The Federal Trade Commission Act empowers the FTC to regulate anticompetitive practices.
The Act is foundational for U.S. competition law, primarily enforced by the FTC; it prohibits unfair methods of competition distinct from those covered by the Sherman Act.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˌʌnəmˈplɔɪmənt tæks ækt/
Employers must comply with the Federal Unemployment Tax Act to finance unemployment benefits.
The Federal Unemployment Tax Act primarily governs employer contributions to unemployment insurance; drafting should distinguish it from state laws covering benefit administration.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈwaɪərˌtæp ækt/
The Federal Wiretap Act requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant before wiretapping phone calls.
When drafting, specify the type of communication covered (e.g., wire, oral, electronic) and note statutory exceptions and warrant requirements.
/ˈfɛdərəl ˈwɜːrkfɔːrs/
The federal workforce includes thousands of employees working in numerous government agencies.
Typically used in policy and administrative contexts relating to government employment, the term encompasses all federal government employees across departments and roles.
/ˈfɛdərəl eɪd ˈhaɪweɪ ækt/
The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 established the Interstate Highway System.
The term typically refers to multiple laws passed since 1916; specify year when precision is needed.
/ˈfɛdərəlɪzəm/
Federalism allows states to create laws alongside national legislation.
The debate over federalism often centers on states' rights versus federal authority.
Federalism is a foundational constitutional principle influencing jurisdictional boundaries and the allocation of governmental powers.
/ˌfɛd·ər·ə·lɪˈzeɪ·ʃən/
The federalization of the country led to the establishment of states with their own legislatures.
Use 'federalization' to describe the structural legal process where power is constitutionally divided; it differs from mere federalism as a system—it is the act or process of becoming federalized.
/ˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən/
The United States is a federation composed of individual states with their own laws.
The federation of labor unions negotiated better working conditions.
In legal contexts, federation often implies a constitutional arrangement balancing powers between central and regional entities.
/fiː/
The attorney charged a fee for her consultation.
He paid the filing fee to initiate the lawsuit.
Fee commonly denotes a monetary charge for professional services; drafters should clarify whether it includes fixed, contingent, or periodic charges when used in contracts.
/ˈfiː əˌɡriːmənt/
The fee agreement outlined whether the lawyer would be paid hourly or via contingency.
Fee agreements should clearly define payment terms to avoid disputes and comply with ethical rules governing attorney compensation.
/ˈfiː əˌreɪndʒmənt/
The lawyer and client agreed on a fee arrangement before commencing work.
The fee arrangement must be clearly documented to avoid disputes.
Fee arrangements should be clearly drafted to avoid ambiguity about compensation, specifying rates, billing cycles, and applicable conditions.
/ˈfiː kæp/
The fee cap in the agreement prevented the client from incurring excessive legal costs.
Fee caps are common in legal fee agreements to provide clients with cost predictability and prevent disputes over excessive charges.
/ˈfiː kəˌlɛkʃən/
The municipality improved its fee collection to reduce outstanding tax payments.
Fee collection at the courthouse must comply with statutory requirements.
In legal drafting, distinguish fee collection from general debt collection by specifying the type of fees involved to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfiː ɪɡˌzɛm(p)ʃən/
The court granted her a fee exemption due to her low income.
Fee exemptions are often regulated by statute or court rules and differ from fee waivers by the conditions and scope of exemption.
/ˈfiː ˌskeɪl/
The lawyer consulted the fee scale to determine the appropriate charge for drafting the contract.
The court adopted a new fee scale for filing fees starting next fiscal year.
Fee scales ensure transparency and standardization of legal charges, often established by statute or court rule.
/ˈfiː ˌskɛdjuːl/
The provider referred to the fee schedule to determine the reimbursement rates for medical procedures.
Fee schedules are commonly incorporated by reference in contracts to standardize charges and facilitate dispute resolution regarding fees.
/ˈfiː ˈʃɪftɪŋ/
The court's fee shifting provision required the defendant to pay the plaintiff's legal expenses after losing the case.
The contract included a fee shifting clause to deter unnecessary litigation.
Fee shifting provisions vary by jurisdiction and are often governed by statutes or contractual agreements, differing from the usual 'American Rule' that each party pays its own fees.
/ˈfi ˈʃɪftɪŋ ˈstætjuts/
Fee shifting statutes are designed to encourage meritorious claims by reducing the risk of costly litigation.
Fee shifting statutes vary by jurisdiction and may have specific eligibility criteria; drafters should specify the conditions under which fees may be shifted.
/ˈfiː ˌsɪm.pəl/
She acquired the property in fee simple, giving her full ownership rights.
Fee simple is the most complete interest in land recognized by common law, often the default estate type in property conveyances.
/ˈfiː ˈsɪmpəl ˈæbsəˌluːt/
She holds the property in fee simple absolute, giving her full control over it indefinitely.
Fee simple absolute is distinguished by its lack of conditions or limitations, ensuring absolute ownership that can be transferred or inherited without restriction.
/ˈfi ˈsɪmpəl dɪˈfiːzəbl/
She held the property in fee simple defeasible, losing ownership if the land ceased to be used as a park.
The deed conveyed a fee simple defeasible with a clause that the land must remain a school.
This term encompasses estates that can be cut short by conditions; drafters should clearly specify the triggering event and resulting consequence to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfiː ˌsɪmpl dɪˈtɜːrmɪnəbl/
The grant conveyed the property to her in fee simple determinable, so the land will revert if it is ever used for commercial purposes.
Fee simple determinable grants possessors an estate that terminates automatically upon the happening of a specified event, emphasizing the importance of clear conditions to avoid unintended forfeiture.
/ˈfiː ˈsɪm.pəl ˈsʌb.dʒɪkt tu kənˈdɪʃ.ən səkˈsɛ.kwənt/
The grant conveyed the property to Alice in fee simple subject to condition subsequent that it not be used for commercial purposes.
Unlike a fee simple determinable, this estate does not end automatically upon breach of condition; the grantor must affirmatively exercise the right of entry to regain the estate.
/ˈfi ˈsplɪtɪŋ/
The attorney was disciplined for improper fee splitting with a non-lawyer.
Fee splitting is principally regulated to maintain professional independence and avoid conflicts of interest; clear agreements and compliance with jurisdictional rules are essential.
/ˈfiː ˈstrʌktʃər/
The attorney explained the fee structure before beginning the case.
The contract’s fee structure included a success bonus and hourly billing.
Fee structures vary widely by jurisdiction and practice area; clarity in drafting fee arrangements helps prevent disputes.
/ˈfiː teɪl/
The property was held in fee tail to ensure it remained within the family for generations.
Fee tail estates are largely abolished or modified in modern jurisdictions; drafting should clarify current applicable law and restrictions on alienation.
/ˈfiː ˈweɪvər/
The applicant submitted a fee waiver request to avoid paying the court filing costs.
Fee waivers are frequently used in legal settings to ensure access to justice for those unable to pay filing or application fees, often requiring proof of indigency or other qualifying factors.
/ˈfi ˈweɪvər rɪˈkwɛst/
The plaintiff filed a fee waiver request to proceed without paying the court costs.
Fee waiver requests often require demonstrating financial hardship; proper drafting should include supporting evidence to improve chances of approval.
/ˌfiː fər ˈsɜːrvɪs/
Under a fee-for-service arrangement, the lawyer bills the client for each individual task performed.
Often contrasts with alternative payment models like flat fees or contingency fees; emphasizes transparency but may encourage overutilization of services.
/ˈfiː ˈʃɛərɪŋ əˌɡriːmənt/
The lawyers entered into a fee-sharing agreement to split the earnings from the class action lawsuit.
Fee-sharing agreements require careful drafting to comply with ethical rules prohibiting improper division of fees among lawyers.
/feɪn/
The witness was accused of feigning ignorance during cross-examination.
In legal usage, feigning often implicates intentional falsity that may affect the credibility of statements or claims, making it relevant in evidentiary assessments.
/feɪn/
The witness feigned ignorance during the testimony to avoid self-incrimination.
In legal contexts, 'feign' often refers to deliberately fabricated claims or conduct aimed at misleading others in judicial proceedings.
/ˈfɛl/
The fell timber was removed from the property following the logging operation.
The boundary included the rocky fell to the north of the estate.
The forestry company was authorized to fell trees on the leased land.
In legal drafting, use 'fell' carefully to distinguish between land descriptions and actions related to cutting timber, as context is essential for clear interpretation.
/ˈfɛlən/
The felon was sentenced to ten years in prison.
The term 'felon' specifically denotes the individual convicted rather than the crime itself. It is distinct from 'felony,' which refers to the offense.
/fɪˈloʊ.ni.əs/
He was charged with felonious assault after the incident.
Used to broadly describe acts or conduct that constitute or relate to felonies; often employed in statutes to distinguish serious crimes from misdemeanors.
/ˈfɛləni/
He was charged with a felony for armed robbery.
Felonies are distinguished from lesser crimes like misdemeanors by the severity of punishment; drafting should specify classification to avoid ambiguity.
/ˈfɛləni ˈɡreɪdɪŋ/
Felony grading helps judges assign appropriate sentences according to the seriousness of the crime.
Felony grading is crucial for ensuring consistent sentencing and reflects varying degrees of criminal culpability.
/ˈfɛləni ˈmɜrdər/
Under the felony murder rule, the defendant was convicted of murder after a robbery resulted in a fatality.
The felony murder rule is strictly a form of strict liability for homicide that eliminates the need to prove intent to kill; it requires careful statutory interpretation and varies by jurisdiction.
/ˈfɛrəl/
The law regulates the capture and control of feral cats to protect native wildlife.
In legal contexts, 'feral' pertains primarily to status of animals or plants and can influence regulations on ownership, liability, and public nuisance.
/fəˈroʊʃəs/
The jury was swayed by the defendant's ferocious outburst during the trial.
In legal contexts, 'ferocious' often describes behavior that may impact considerations of intent, temperament, or threat level.
/fəˈroʊʃəsli/
The defendant ferociously contested the charges throughout the trial.
Used to describe the manner of conduct, emphasizing intensity or aggression, commonly in litigation or enforcement contexts.
/fə-ˈrɒsɪti/
The defendant's ferocity during the attack influenced the severity of the charges.
Ferocity is used to describe the intensity or severity of behavior, particularly in criminal law when evaluating evidence of violent conduct or threat level.
/ˈfɜːrpə/
Under FERPA, schools must obtain consent before disclosing student information.
Commonly cited acronym for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, often referenced in education and privacy law contexts.
/ˈfɜːrpə kəmˈplaɪəns/
The school implemented strict FERPA compliance to safeguard student information.
FERPA compliance requires institutions to implement policies and procedures ensuring student records are handled according to federal privacy standards.
/ˈfɜːrtɪləti/
The dispute over fertility treatments raised complex legal questions about parental rights.
The contract included provisions about maintaining soil fertility.
In legal drafting, specify the context of fertility—human reproductive capacity or land productivity—to avoid ambiguity.
/ˌfɜːrtɪlɪˈzeɪʃən/
The court examined the contract terms related to fertilization procedures in the surrogacy agreement.
In legal contexts, fertilization often relates to disputes or agreements involving assisted reproductive technologies, requiring precise definition to address consent and parentage issues.
/ˈfɜːrtəˌlaɪz/
The farmer legally documented the method used to fertilize the crops to comply with environmental regulations.
In legal contexts, 'fertilize' often appears in statutes or agreements concerning reproductive technologies and agricultural practices, emphasizing compliance with regulatory frameworks.
/ˈfiːtəl vaɪəˈbɪlɪti/
The law often defines fetal viability as a key factor in abortion regulations.
Legal definitions of fetal viability may vary by jurisdiction and impact regulations on abortion and fetal rights.
/ˈfiːtəs/
The court examined whether the rights of the fetus were protected under the law.
Legal definitions of 'fetus' often vary with context, especially concerning rights and viability, so specifying the stage of development is important in legal drafting.
/ˈfjuːd/
The centuries-old feud between the two families escalated into a legal battle over property rights.
In legal contexts, a feud may underlie disputes concerning inheritance, property, or contractual obligations, often leading to litigation.
/ˈfjuːdəl/
The feudal system structured medieval society around obligations between lords and vassals.
Some scholars describe the region’s government as feudal due to its fragmented authority.
Typically used adjectivally to describe legal and social arrangements rooted in medieval land tenure and obligations; avoid using 'feudal' to describe modern legal systems unless drawing historical analogy.
/ˈfjuːdəl djuːz/
The tenant was required to pay feudal dues annually as part of his obligation.
Feudal dues are rooted in historic land tenure and customary obligations; modern usage is largely historical or in comparative legal contexts.
/ˈfjuː.dl lɔrd/
The feudal lord granted his vassals parcels of land in return for military support.
The term is primarily historical and pertains to medieval land tenure systems; in legal history, it highlights the hierarchy of landholding and associated duties.
/ˈfjuːdəl ˈlɔːrdʃɪp/
Under feudal lordship, peasants owed service and allegiance to their lord in exchange for protection and land use.
Feudal lordship denotes a specific hierarchical legal relationship grounded in medieval land tenure; clarity in drafting requires distinguishing it from general lordship or modern property rights.
/ˈfjuːdəl ˈtɛn.jʊər/
Under feudal tenure, the knight held land from the lord in return for military service.
Feudal tenure created a hierarchy of rights and duties between lords and vassals.
Feudal tenure is primarily historical but foundational for land law development; modern usage is often in reference or analogy.
/ˈfjuːdəlɪzəm/
Feudalism shaped medieval property relations and governance structures.
Feudalism is primarily a historical legal concept; modern references are mostly descriptive or comparative in legal scholarship.
