NE glossary terms

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

Necessarily

/ˈnɛsəˌsɛrəli/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) In a manner that is unavoidable or logically required by law or fact.
    A contract necessarily must have mutual agreement to be enforceable.
  2. (adv.) Indicating that something follows as a direct consequence or is essential under legal standards.
    The violation necessarily results in liability for damages.

Commentary

Used to denote conditions or consequences that are inescapable or prescribed by law; careful precision is needed to distinguish from possible or probable outcomes.


Necessarily Implied

/ˈnɛsɪsɛrɨli ɪmˈplaɪd/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Implied in law or fact as an unavoidable consequence, without explicit expression.
    The contract's terms were necessarily implied to ensure fairness between the parties.

Commentary

Use 'necessarily implied' to denote terms or obligations that must be inferred to give effect to the parties' intention or legal operation, avoiding ambiguity in contract construction.


Necessary

/ˈnesəˌsɛri/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Essential or indispensable for the purpose or result in a legal context.
    The contract clause was necessary to ensure compliance with the law.
  2. (adj.) Reasonably needed or appropriate under the circumstances in legal reasoning, often relating to justifications or defenses.
    The use of force was deemed necessary and proportionate in this case.

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'necessary' should be used with precision to distinguish between absolute requirements and reasonable necessity depending on the legal context.


Necessary Condition

/ˈnɛsəˌsɛri kənˈdɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A condition that must be met for a particular legal consequence or event to occur, but alone may not be sufficient to cause it.
    Proof of intent is a necessary condition for establishing criminal liability.

Commentary

In legal drafting, clearly distinguishing necessary from sufficient conditions aids in precise allocation of obligations and liabilities.


Necessary Party

/ˈnesəˌsɛri ˈpɑrti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A party whose involvement in a lawsuit is required for a court to render a complete and effective judgment.
    The court dismissed the case because the necessary party was not joined.

Forms

  • necessary parties

Commentary

Necessary parties must be joined to ensure the court can determine the entire controversy; failure to join them can result in dismissal or incomplete relief.


Necessity

/nəˈsɛsɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A circumstance justifying or compelling an act otherwise unlawful to avoid a greater harm.
    The defendant pleaded necessity to justify breaking the highway barrier during the emergency.
  2. (n.) An indispensable thing or condition required by law or circumstance.
    Access to legal counsel is a necessity in criminal proceedings.

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish necessity as a defense from related concepts like duress and self-defense; clarity in the circumstances that justify necessity is essential.


Necessity Defense

/ˈnɛsəsɪti dɪˌfɛns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal defense allowing a defendant to argue that breaking the law was justified to prevent a greater harm.
    The defendant invoked the necessity defense to justify breaking into the cabin during the storm.

Commentary

The necessity defense requires that the harm avoided outweighs the harm caused, and the defendant had no reasonable legal alternative.


Necessity Doctrine

/ˈnɛsɪsɪti ˈdɒktrɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle allowing unlawful conduct to be excused if it was necessary to prevent a greater harm.
    The defendant invoked the necessity doctrine to justify breaking into the cabin to avoid freezing to death.
  2. (n.) A defense in criminal law asserting that the accused committed the offense to prevent imminent and significant harm that outweighed the illegal act.
    Under the necessity doctrine, the court considered whether the defendant’s illegal act was justified to save lives.

Forms

  • necessity doctrine

Commentary

The necessity doctrine often requires an imminent threat and no reasonable legal alternative; its scope varies by jurisdiction.


Negative

/ˈnɛɡətɪv/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Expressing refusal, denial, or absence of a legal right or claim.
    The defendant gave a negative response to the plaintiff's allegations.
  2. (adj.) Having no legal effect or invalidating the existence of a right or obligation.
    A negative covenant restricts the parties from certain actions in contract law.
  3. (n.) A response or statement indicating denial or rejection in legal proceedings.
    The witness's negative contradicted the plaintiff's version of events.

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'negative' often contrasts with 'affirmative' to indicate absence rather than presence of rights or claims.


Negative Covenant

/ˈnɛɡətɪv ˈkʌvənənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A clause in a contract or deed that restricts a party from undertaking certain actions, typically to protect property interests or maintain certain conditions.
    The lease included a negative covenant prohibiting tenants from subletting the property without consent.

Forms

  • negative covenant
  • negative covenants

Commentary

Negative covenants are commonly used in real estate and contract law to limit actions; drafters should clearly specify the prohibited activities to avoid ambiguity.


Negative Defense

/ˈnɛɡətɪv dɪˈfɛns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A defense in a legal case where the defendant denies the plaintiff's allegations without presenting evidence to prove an alternative claim.
    The defendant asserted a negative defense by denying all allegations in the complaint.

Forms

  • negative defense

Commentary

A negative defense focuses solely on denying allegations and does not admit any facts constituting the plaintiff's claim; it contrasts with an affirmative defense which introduces new facts or legal reasons to defeat the claim.


Neglect

/nɪˈɡlɛkt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Failure to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances, resulting in harm or damage.
    The court found the defendant guilty of neglect for failing to maintain safe premises.
  2. (v.) To fail to give proper attention or care to a duty or responsibility.
    He was accused of neglecting his fiduciary duties to the corporation.

Forms

  • neglects
  • neglected
  • neglecting

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'neglect' often overlaps with but is distinct from 'negligence'; neglect usually implies a conscious disregard or failure to act, whereas negligence may be broader and include mistakes or inadvertence.


Neglect of Duty

/ˈnɛɡlɛkt əv ˈdjuːti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The failure to perform a required legal or official duty resulting in potential harm or liability.
    The officer was charged with neglect of duty for not responding to the emergency call.

Commentary

Often used in criminal and administrative law contexts to denote liability for failing to fulfill official responsibilities.


Negligence

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The failure to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances, resulting in harm or damage.
    The driver was found liable due to negligence in failing to stop at the red light.

Commentary

Negligence is a foundational concept in tort law involving breach of a duty causing damage; carefully distinguish from intentional torts and strict liability in drafting.


Negligent

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒənt/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Failing to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances, leading to harm or damage.
    The driver was found negligent for not stopping at the red light.

Forms

  • negligently

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'negligent' describes conduct falling below a standard of reasonable care; it is central in tort law for establishing fault.


Negligent Homicide

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒənt ˈhɒmɪsaɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The unlawful killing of a person through criminal negligence without intent to cause death.
    He was charged with negligent homicide after the fatal car accident.

Forms

  • negligent homicides

Commentary

Negligent homicide is distinguished from manslaughter by the absence of intent to kill, focusing on a breach of a duty of care resulting in death.


Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒənt ɪnˈflɪkʃən əv ɪˈmoʊʃənəl dɪˈstrɛs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A tort claim arising when a defendant's negligent conduct causes severe emotional distress to a claimant, even absent physical injury.
    The plaintiff sued for negligent infliction of emotional distress after witnessing the accident caused by the defendant.

Commentary

Negligent infliction of emotional distress often requires proving foreseeability and physical impact or sensory perception of the event; legal standards vary by jurisdiction.


Negligent Misrepresentation

/ˈnɛɡlɪd​ʒənt ˌmɪsprɛzənˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A false statement made carelessly that induces another party to enter into a contract or transaction, resulting in legal liability for damages.
    The plaintiff sued for negligent misrepresentation after relying on the inaccurate financial report provided by the defendant.

Commentary

Negligent misrepresentation differs from fraud in that it requires a lack of reasonable care rather than intent to deceive. Drafting should emphasize the duty of care and reliance components to establish liability.


Negligent Misstatement

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒənt ˌmɪsˈteɪtmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A false statement made carelessly or without reasonable grounds, causing another party to suffer a financial loss by relying on it.
    The consultant was liable for a negligent misstatement that led to the client's financial loss.

Forms

  • negligent misstatement
  • negligent misstatements

Commentary

Negligent misstatement typically arises in tort law concerning economic loss from reliance on inaccurate information; clarity in establishing duty and breach is crucial in drafting related claims.


Negligently

/ˈneɡ.lɪ.dʒənt.li/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) In a manner characterized by failure to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances, resulting in harm or risk of harm.
    The defendant acted negligently by leaving the hazardous condition unmarked.

Commentary

Used as an adverb to describe acts or omissions performed without the proper standard of care; commonly appears in tort law contexts assessing liability.


Negotiability

/nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈæbɪləti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The quality of an instrument or document that makes it transferrable and enforceable by endorsement or delivery to a holder in due course.
    The negotiability of the promissory note allowed it to be freely traded among investors.

Commentary

Negotiability typically applies to instruments like checks and promissory notes, indicating their ability to be transferred and guaranteed free of prior claims; clear drafting of negotiability terms avoids disputes.


Negotiable

/nɪˈɡoʊʃiəbəl/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Capable of being transferred by endorsement or delivery under commercial law, especially referring to instruments such as checks or promissory notes.
    The check is negotiable and can be cashed by the bearer.
  2. (adj.) Subject to discussion, modification, or bargaining in contractual or legal terms.
    The terms of the contract are negotiable before signing.

Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify whether 'negotiable' refers to transferability of instruments or the flexibility of contract terms.


Negotiable Instrument

/ˌnɛɡoʊʃiˈeɪbəl ˈɪnstrəmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A written document guaranteeing the payment of a specific amount of money, either on demand or at a set time, and transferable by endorsement or delivery.
    The bank accepted the negotiable instrument as valid payment for the loan.
  2. (n.) A commercial document such as a cheque, promissory note, or bill of exchange that evidences a debt and is legally enforceable.
    He endorsed the negotiable instrument to his supplier to settle the amount owed.

Forms

  • negotiable instruments

Commentary

Ensure that the term covers both unconditional orders to pay and promises, distinguishing negotiable instruments from ordinary contracts by negotiability and transferability.


Negotiate

/nɪˈɡoʊʃieɪt/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To confer or bargain with another party to reach a mutual agreement or settlement.
    The parties negotiated the terms of the contract for several weeks.

Forms

  • negotiates
  • negotiated
  • negotiating

Commentary

In legal contexts, negotiation emphasizes mutual communication and consent without judicial intervention; clarity in terms helps prevent disputes.


Negotiated Bidding

/nɪˈɡoʊʃieɪtɪd ˈbɪdɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procurement method where the terms and conditions are discussed and agreed upon between parties before the bidding process.
    The government agency preferred negotiated bidding for the complex infrastructure project to clarify specifications.

Forms

  • negotiated bidding

Commentary

Negotiated bidding is contrasted with competitive bidding; it allows more flexibility but requires careful documentation to ensure fairness and transparency.


Negotiated Contract

/ˈnɛɡoʊʃieɪtɪd ˈkɒntrækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A contract whose terms have been mutually discussed and agreed upon by the parties involved, rather than imposed unilaterally.
    The parties executed a negotiated contract after several rounds of discussions.

Forms

  • negotiated contract
  • negotiated contracts

Commentary

The term emphasizes that the contract terms result from negotiation, often affecting enforceability and interpretation nuances.


Negotiation

/nɪˌgoʊʃiˈeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process by which two or more parties communicate and bargain to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
    The negotiation between the buyer and seller lasted several days before they finalized the contract.
  2. (n.) A method of alternative dispute resolution where parties attempt to settle their differences without litigation.
    Negotiation is often encouraged to avoid the costs of going to court.

Forms

  • negotiations

Commentary

Negotiation is fundamental in contract formation and dispute resolution, emphasizing communication and compromise; clarity in roles and terms during drafting helps avoid ambiguity.


Negotiation Protocol

/ˌnɪɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃən ˈproʊtəˌkɒl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal set of rules governing the process and exchange of information during legal or commercial negotiations.
    The negotiation protocol outlined the steps both parties must follow to reach an agreement.

Forms

  • negotiation protocol
  • negotiation protocols

Commentary

Drafting a negotiation protocol helps ensure clarity and fairness by setting structured procedures and communication channels for negotiations.


Negotiation Strategy

/ˌnɛɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃən ˈstrætədʒi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A planned approach and method used to achieve desired outcomes in legal negotiations, such as settlements or contracts.
    The lawyer developed a negotiation strategy to secure favorable terms for her client.

Forms

  • negotiation strategies

Commentary

In legal contexts, a negotiation strategy is often tailored to the specific legal framework and parties' interests, emphasizing preparation, understanding legal rights, and anticipating counteroffers.


Negotiator

/nɪˈɡoʊʃieɪtər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who conducts negotiations, especially to settle legal disputes or business agreements.
    The negotiator successfully brokered the settlement between the two parties.

Forms

  • negotiators

Commentary

In legal contexts, a negotiator often plays a crucial role in alternative dispute resolution, requiring skill in communication and compromise.


Neighborhood

/ˈneɪbərˌhʊd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A geographically localized community within a larger city, town, or district, often recognized for legal zoning, municipal services, or real estate purposes.
    The city council proposed new regulations affecting the historic neighborhood.

Forms

  • neighborhoods

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'neighborhood' often relates to zoning laws, historic preservation, and local governance, where boundaries and characteristics may influence regulatory decisions.


Neighbourhood

/ˈneɪbɚhʊd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A geographically localized community within a larger city or town, often recognized for zoning, planning, or legal jurisdiction purposes.
    The council held a public hearing to discuss zoning changes in the neighbourhood.

Forms

  • neighbourhoods

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'neighbourhood' often informs zoning laws, property disputes, and local governance; it is important to distinguish it from broader administrative units.


Nelsonian Knowledge

/ˌnɛlˈsəʊniən ˈnɒlɪdʒ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A concept in legal epistemology referring to knowledge that is internally justified without reliance on external validation, derived from the philosophy of philosopher Nelson Goodman.
    The court debated whether the defendant's claim met the standards of Nelsonian knowledge.

Forms

  • nelsonian knowledge

Commentary

Used primarily in theoretical legal discussions about the nature and justification of legal knowledge; rare in practical litigation contexts.


Nemo Judex in Causa Sua

/ˈniː.moʊ ˈjuː.dɛks ɪn ˈkaʊ.zə ˈsuː.ə/

Definitions

  1. (phrase) A fundamental legal principle that no one should be a judge in their own case to ensure impartiality.
    The court applied the nemo judex in causa sua principle to disqualify the biased judge.

Forms

  • nemo judex in causa sua

Commentary

This Latin maxim underpins the requirement for judicial impartiality and is essential in procedural fairness doctrines.


Neonate

/ˈniːəˌneɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A newborn infant, especially within the first 28 days after birth, relevant in legal contexts such as birth registration, custody, and welfare.
    The hospital is required to report the birth of every neonate to the local authorities.

Forms

  • neonates

Commentary

In legal texts, 'neonate' is used precisely to define the earliest stage of life for regulatory, medical, and custody considerations.


Neonaticide

/ˌniː.əʊˈnæt.ɪ.saɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act of killing a newborn within the first 24 hours after birth.
    The defendant was charged with neonaticide for the death of her infant shortly after delivery.

Forms

  • neonaticides

Commentary

Neonaticide is distinct from infanticide, which generally covers killing a child within the first year of life; precise statutory definitions vary by jurisdiction.


Nepotism

/ˈnɛpəˌtɪzəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Favoritism granted to relatives or close friends by those in power, often by giving them jobs or advantages, typically in violation of legal or ethical standards.
    The company's hiring practices were scrutinized for nepotism after several family members were appointed to senior positions without proper qualifications.

Commentary

Nepotism often arises in legal contexts involving employment law, administrative law, and ethics regulations, highlighting the importance of impartiality and meritocracy in public and private sectors.


Net

/nɛt/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Referring to an amount remaining after all deductions, such as expenses, taxes, or allowances, have been subtracted.
    The employee's net salary is what they receive after taxes are deducted.
  2. (n.) The final amount remaining after various deductions; often used in financial and legal contexts to describe income, profit, or proceeds.
    The contract stipulates that the net profits will be shared equally between the parties.

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'net' is typically used adjectivally to clarify amounts after deductions; specifying what deductions are included is essential to avoid ambiguity.


Net Asset Value

/ˌnɛt ˈæsɛt ˈvæljuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The value of an entity's assets minus its liabilities, often used to determine the value of investment funds or companies.
    The mutual fund's net asset value is calculated daily to determine the price per share.

Forms

  • net asset value
  • net asset values

Commentary

In legal and financial contexts, precise calculation and disclosure of net asset value are critical for transparency and investor protection.


Net Assets

/ˌnɛt ˈæsɛts/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total assets of an entity minus its total liabilities, representing owner equity or fund balance.
    The company's net assets increased significantly after repaying its debts.

Forms

  • net assets

Commentary

Often used in nonprofit and corporate accounting to reflect financial position; drafting should clarify whether referring to net book value or market value.


Net Domestic Product

/ˌnɛt dəˈmɛstɪk ˈprɒdʌkt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total market value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a given period, minus depreciation of capital goods.
    The government's economic report highlighted an increase in the net domestic product this fiscal year.

Forms

  • net domestic product
  • net domestic products

Commentary

In legal contexts, NDP figures are often used for economic analysis in regulatory and tax law to assess economic performance net of capital consumption.


Net Income

/ˈnɛt ˈɪnkʌm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total profit of a company after all expenses, taxes, and costs have been deducted from total revenue.
    The company's net income increased significantly this fiscal year due to higher sales.

Commentary

Net income is a key indicator of financial health and is often used in legal contexts relating to taxation, corporate finance, and contractual profit-sharing calculations.


Net Loss

/ˌnɛt ˈlɒs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount by which total expenses exceed total income, particularly in financial statements relevant to legal and regulatory contexts.
    The company's net loss this quarter triggered an audit by regulatory authorities.

Forms

  • net losses

Commentary

Net loss is a fundamental accounting term frequently scrutinized in legal disputes involving financial compliance and insolvency.


Net Margin

/ˈnet ˈmɑrdʒɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The financial ratio representing the percentage of net profit to total revenue, often used in corporate law to assess a company's profitability after all expenses and taxes.
    The company's net margin improved significantly following the restructuring, indicating better profitability.

Commentary

In legal contexts, net margin is crucial for evaluating corporate financial health and compliance with financial reporting standards.


Net Neutrality

/ˌnɛt ˌnjuːˈtrælɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal principle requiring internet service providers to treat all data on the internet equally without discrimination or charging differently based on user, content, site, or platform.
    The government enacted regulations enforcing net neutrality to prevent ISPs from blocking or throttling certain websites.

Commentary

Net neutrality is a foundational concept in telecom law, often debated in regulatory and policy contexts regarding fair access and competition.


Net Operating Loss

/ˈnɛt ˈɒpəreɪtɪŋ lɒs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount by which a taxpayer's business deductions exceed gross income, often used to offset taxable income in other years.
    The company reported a net operating loss of $2 million, which it carried forward to reduce tax liability in subsequent years.

Forms

  • net operating loss
  • net operating losses

Commentary

Commonly used in tax law, net operating loss allows businesses to smooth income tax burdens across profitable and unprofitable years.


Net Operating Loss Carryback

/ˌnɛt ˈɑpəˌreɪtɪŋ lɒs ˈkæriˌbæk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A tax provision allowing a taxpayer to apply a net operating loss to past tax years, resulting in a refund of previously paid taxes.
    The company filed a net operating loss carryback to recover taxes paid in prior years.

Forms

  • net operating loss carryback
  • net operating loss carrybacks

Commentary

Typically used in corporate and income tax contexts; precise rules and carryback periods vary by jurisdiction.


Net Operating Loss Carryforward

/ˌnet ˈɑpəreɪtɪŋ lɔs ˈkæriˌfɔrwərd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A tax provision allowing a business to apply a net operating loss to future taxable profits to reduce tax liability.
    The company utilized its net operating loss carryforward to offset taxable income in subsequent years.

Forms

  • net operating loss carryforward

Commentary

Typically specified in tax codes, net operating loss carryforwards must comply with statutory time limits and carryforward rules to maintain eligibility.


Net Pay

/ˌnɛt ˈpeɪ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount of money an employee takes home after all deductions such as taxes and benefits.
    Her net pay increased after the company raised the salary.
  2. (n.) The final amount payable to a party after all applicable deductions in financial or contractual settlements.
    The contractor received the net pay after all expenses were deducted.

Forms

  • net pay

Commentary

Net pay is often contrasted with gross pay; precise deduction laws vary by jurisdiction, necessitating clear specification in contracts.


Net Profit

/ˌnet ˈprɒfɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount remaining after all expenses, taxes, and costs have been deducted from total revenue, often used in financial statements and legal accounting.
    The contract specified how the net profit would be shared among the partners.

Commentary

In legal contexts, net profit calculation can affect contractual obligations and distribution of earnings; clear definition in agreements is essential to avoid disputes.


Net Realizable Value

/ˌnɛt ˌriːəˈlaɪzəbəl ˈvæljuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The estimated selling price of an asset in the ordinary course of business minus the estimated costs of completion, disposal, and transportation.
    Inventory is recorded at net realizable value to reflect its true economic worth.

Forms

  • net realizable value

Commentary

Net realizable value is a crucial valuation concept ensuring assets are not overstated on financial statements, reflecting realizable cash flows rather than historical cost.


Net Revenue

/ˌnɛt ˈrɛvəˌnuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total income remaining after deducting returns, allowances, and discounts from gross revenue, often used in contracts and financial statements.
    The contract specifies that royalties will be calculated based on net revenue rather than gross sales.

Commentary

In legal drafting, specifying net revenue rather than gross revenue clarifies the basis for financial calculations, reducing disputes over deductions.


Net Terms

Definitions

  1. (n.) The period of time agreed between parties within which payment for goods or services must be made in full, commonly specified in sales or credit agreements.
    The invoice states net terms of 30 days, meaning payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date.

Forms

  • net terms
  • net term

Commentary

Net terms are typically expressed in days and specify payment deadlines without deductions; clarity in drafting helps avoid disputes on when payments are due.


Net Total

/ˈnɛt ˈtoʊtl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount remaining after all deductions, such as expenses or liabilities, have been subtracted from the gross total.
    The court calculated the net total damages owed to the plaintiff after all offsets.

Commentary

In legal drafting, specifying 'net total' clarifies the final amount after statutory or contractual deductions, avoiding ambiguity over gross or intermediate totals.


Net Working Capital

/ˌnɛt ˈwɜrkɪŋ ˈkæpɪtl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The difference between a company's current assets and current liabilities, representing short-term liquidity and operational efficiency.
    The acquisition deal hinged on the target company's net working capital being above a specified threshold.

Forms

  • net working capital
  • net working capitals

Commentary

Net working capital is a critical measure in mergers and acquisitions for assessing a company's short-term financial health and ensuring value protection in purchase agreements.


Net Worth

/ˌnet ˈwɜrθ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total value of an individual's or entity's assets minus liabilities, representing financial position.
    The court evaluated the defendant's net worth to determine damages.

Forms

  • net worth

Commentary

Net worth is crucial in insolvency, divorce settlements, and financial disclosures, reflecting true economic standing.


Netted

/ˈnɛtɪd/

Definitions

  1. (v.) Past tense and past participle of net, meaning to secure or receive a result, profit, or benefit, especially in financial or legal contexts.
    The company netted a substantial profit after the lawsuit was settled.

Commentary

In legal usage, 'netted' often appears in financial contexts to indicate the amount remaining after deductions, important in calculating damages or obligations.


Netting

/ˈnetɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal arrangement or process by which mutual obligations or debts are consolidated to determine a single net amount owed by one party to another.
    The parties agreed to netting the amounts owed to simplify their financial transactions.
  2. (n.) The act of offsetting exposures or claims between parties to reduce credit risk, commonly used in financial contracts and derivatives.
    Netting reduces counterparty risk in derivatives trading by offsetting mutual obligations.

Commentary

In drafting, clarity is essential to distinguish netting arrangements from simple payments or set-offs, especially in complex financial contracts.


Netting Agreement

/ˈnɛtɪŋ əˌɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A contractual arrangement by which parties consolidate and offset mutual obligations to determine a single net payment or settlement amount.
    The parties executed a netting agreement to reduce their multiple payment obligations to a single net amount.

Forms

  • netting agreements

Commentary

Netting agreements are crucial in financial law to mitigate credit risk and simplify settlement by reducing multiple obligations to one net amount.


Network

/ˈnɛtˌwɜrk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An interconnected system of persons or organizations for communication, trade, or operation within a legal or regulatory context.
    The attorney built a network of contacts to aid in cross-jurisdictional cases.
  2. (n.) A group of computers or devices linked for data sharing, subject to legal regulations on privacy and cybersecurity.
    The company strengthened its network security to comply with data protection laws.

Forms

  • networks

Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify whether 'network' pertains to human or technological connections, as this affects applicable laws and regulations.


Network Equipment

/ˈnɛtwɜrk ɪˈkwɪpmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Hardware devices facilitating communication and connectivity in information networks, often subject to regulatory standards and contractual terms.
    The contract specified liability for damages caused by faulty network equipment.

Forms

  • network equipment

Commentary

In legal contexts, network equipment is often addressed in regulatory compliance, liability, and contract provisions, emphasizing its operational and legal risks within communications infrastructure.


Network Facility

/ˈnɛtwɜrk fəˈsɪləti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A physical or virtual infrastructure component used in telecommunications or data transfer that enables the transmission, switching, or routing of communications.
    The company invested heavily in upgrading its network facilities to improve service reliability.
  2. (n.) In regulatory contexts, any tangible or intangible asset used to provide network services, including cables, switches, routers, and transmission apparatus.
    Network facilities must comply with industry standards to ensure fair access for all providers.

Forms

  • network facility
  • network facilities

Commentary

The term often appears in telecommunications law, emphasizing regulatory distinctions between physical infrastructure and service offerings.


Network Infrastructure

/ˈnɛtwɜrk ˌɪnfrəˈstrʌktʃər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The foundational physical and organizational structures, such as cables, switches, routers, and data centers, enabling communication and data exchange within and between computer networks, subject to regulatory and compliance frameworks.
    The company upgraded its network infrastructure to comply with new cybersecurity laws.

Forms

  • network infrastructure

Commentary

In legal contexts, network infrastructure is often scrutinized for compliance with data protection and cybersecurity regulations, requiring precise definitions in contracts and policy documents.


Network Marketing

/ˈnɛtwɜrk ˈmɑrkɪtɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A business model in which individuals sell products or services directly to consumers and earn commissions from sales by themselves and their recruited network.
    The company adopted network marketing to expand its sales reach through independent distributors.
  2. (n.) A legal structure subject to regulation to prevent pyramid schemes and deceptive sales practices.
    Regulators scrutinize network marketing practices to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.

Forms

  • network marketing

Commentary

Network marketing arrangements often require careful drafting to distinguish lawful direct selling from illegal pyramid schemes.


Network Neutrality

/ˈnetwɜrk ˌnuːˈtrælɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal principle requiring internet service providers to treat all data equally without discrimination or charging differently by user, content, website, or platform.
    The regulator enforced network neutrality to prevent ISPs from throttling video streaming services.

Forms

  • network neutrality

Commentary

Network neutrality is central to debates on internet regulation, balancing innovation and free speech against infrastructure investment.


Network Operator

/ˈnɛtwɜrk ˈɒpəˌreɪtə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An entity responsible for operating and maintaining a telecommunications or data network, ensuring connectivity and compliance with regulatory standards.
    The network operator must adhere to the data privacy regulations when handling user information.
  2. (n.) A party licensed by a regulatory authority to provide and manage network services within a specific jurisdiction.
    As a licensed network operator, the company is subject to periodic audits by the telecom regulator.

Forms

  • network operator
  • network operators

Commentary

In legal drafting, specify the scope of network operator duties clearly, including regulatory compliance and data obligations, to avoid ambiguity.


Network Provider

/ˈnɛtwɜrk prəˌvaɪdər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An entity that offers infrastructure or services enabling communication and data exchange across a network, often subject to regulatory compliance.
    The network provider must ensure data privacy according to telecommunications laws.

Forms

  • network provider
  • network providers

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'network provider' often implicates regulatory frameworks affecting data transmission and privacy obligations.


Network Security

/ˈnɛtwɜːrk sɪˈkjʊərəti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Measures and protocols designed to protect legal communications, data integrity, and confidentiality across computer networks.
    The company implemented robust network security to comply with data protection regulations.

Commentary

In legal contexts, network security often intersects with compliance and regulatory frameworks governing data privacy and breach notification.


Network Service

/ˈnetˌwɜːrk ˈsɜːrvɪs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A service provided via a telecommunications or computer network enabling data transmission, communication, or related functionalities under a contract or regulatory regime.
    The telecom company is obligated to ensure uninterrupted network service to its subscribers.
  2. (n.) A legal agreement or contractual arrangement governing the provision of infrastructure and access for network-based communication services.
    The parties entered into a network service agreement outlining service levels and liabilities.

Forms

  • network service
  • network services

Commentary

In legal drafting, clearly distinguish network service from the underlying physical infrastructure and specify contractual terms governing performance and liability.


Network Sharing

/ˈnɛtˌwɜrk ˈʃɛrɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal framework or agreement that governs the authorized distribution and use of data, bandwidth, or resources among multiple users or entities within a network.
    The contract included provisions on network sharing to ensure all parties had equal access to the system resources.

Forms

  • network sharing

Commentary

Network sharing agreements often require clear terms on liability, usage limits, and data protection to mitigate legal risks.


Neurology

/ˌnʊəˈrɒlədʒi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system, relevant to legal cases involving mental capacity or brain injury.
    The expert witness testified on the defendant's neurological condition to assess criminal responsibility.

Forms

  • neurology

Commentary

In legal contexts, neurology primarily informs issues of competency, injury assessment, and forensic evaluations.


Neuropsychological Assessment

/ˌnʊroʊˌsaɪkəˈlɑːdʒɪkəl əˈsɛsmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A systematic evaluation of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functions related to brain activity, often used in legal contexts to determine mental competency or brain injury.
    The court ordered a neuropsychological assessment to evaluate the defendant's mental state at the time of the offense.

Forms

  • neuropsychological assessment
  • neuropsychological assessments

Commentary

In legal settings, neuropsychological assessments are crucial for substantiating claims about mental capacity or brain damage; precise documentation and standardized testing protocols enhance their evidentiary value.


Neuropsychological Evaluation

/ˌnʊroʊ.saɪ.kəˈlɒdʒɪ.kəl ˌɛvəˈluːˌeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified professional to evaluate cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functioning, often used in legal contexts to determine competency, capacity, or brain injury effects.
    The court ordered a neuropsychological evaluation to assess the defendant's mental capacity to stand trial.

Forms

  • neuropsychological evaluation
  • neuropsychological evaluations

Commentary

Often integral in legal proceedings involving mental health claims, brain injury, or capacity, requiring medically qualified examiners for admissible results.


Neurotrauma

/ˌnʊroʊˈtrɔːmə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Physical injury to the nervous system, particularly the brain or spinal cord, relevant in personal injury and medical malpractice law.
    The plaintiff claimed damages for neurotrauma sustained in the car accident.

Forms

  • neurotrauma

Commentary

In legal contexts, neurotrauma is often examined in cases involving negligence or liability where proof of neurological injury impacts compensation.


Neutral

/ˈnuːtrəl/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Not taking sides or showing favoritism in a dispute or controversy, especially in legal or diplomatic contexts.
    The mediator remained neutral throughout the negotiation.
  2. (adj.) Not legally binding or prejudicial; impartial or unbiased by law.
    A neutral party must not influence the outcome of the arbitration.
  3. (adj.) In intellectual property law, referring to a device or process that is not covered by existing patents.
    The defendant argued their method was neutral and did not infringe on any patent.

Commentary

In legal contexts, neutrality often implies an ethical or procedural requirement to avoid bias, particularly important in dispute resolution and judicial roles.


Neutral State

/ˈnuːtrəl steɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A state that officially declares neutrality in an armed conflict, abstaining from participation and maintaining impartiality towards belligerents.
    During the war, the neutral state refused to allow its territory to be used for military operations.
  2. (n.) In international law, a state recognized by other states as impartial and not a participant in a particular conflict or dispute.
    Switzerland has long been regarded as a neutral state under international law.

Commentary

The term typically refers to a state's legal posture during international armed conflicts, emphasizing impartiality and non-involvement; drafting neutrality requires clear declarations to avoid inadvertent engagement.


Neutral Territory

/ˈnuːtrəl ˈtɛrɪtɔːri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A geographical area recognized as not subject to the sovereignty or authority of any state or party, often established for purposes of diplomacy, security, or dispute resolution.
    The treaty designated the border zone as neutral territory to prevent military activity by either side.

Forms

  • neutral territory

Commentary

Use with precision in treaties and international law to indicate areas free from control by conflicting parties.


Neutral Zone

/ˈnuːtrəl zoʊn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A demilitarized or buffer area agreed between parties in a dispute to prevent conflict or unauthorized access.
    The treaty established a neutral zone where neither side could deploy troops.
  2. (n.) In property law, a space or boundary area where the rights or interests of adjacent landowners overlap or are undefined.
    The neutral zone between the two properties is subject to shared maintenance obligations.

Forms

  • neutral zone

Commentary

In legal drafting, defining a neutral zone precisely is critical to avoid territorial disputes and ensure clear demarcation of rights or restrictions.


Neutrality

/njuːˈtrælɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The principle or status of not supporting or assisting any party in a conflict or dispute, especially in international law.
    The country's neutrality was recognized during the war, preventing it from joining either side.
  2. (n.) The state of remaining impartial and unbiased in judicial or arbitration proceedings.
    Judicial neutrality is essential to ensure a fair trial.
  3. (n.) A doctrine in information technology law advocating for equal treatment of data without discrimination by internet service providers.
    Net neutrality laws prohibit ISPs from blocking lawful content or throttling bandwidth.

Commentary

Neutrality often requires clear legal status or policy declaration; in international contexts, it may be codified by treaties, while in jurisprudence it underscores the importance of judge impartiality.


Neutrally

/ˈnuːtrəli/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) In a manner that is impartial or unbiased, especially in legal or judicial contexts.
    The judge ruled neutrally to ensure fairness for both parties.

Commentary

Used to emphasize the importance of impartiality in legal judgments and procedures.


Nevertheless

/ˌnɛvərðəˈlɛs/

Definitions

  1. (adv.) Used to introduce a contrast or to concede a point while affirming the main statement in legal arguments or texts.
    The defendant was late to court; nevertheless, the judge allowed the testimony.

Commentary

Often used to reconcile conflicting statements or introduce exceptions in legal reasoning or drafting.


New Drug

/ˈnuː ˌdrʌɡ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A substance not previously approved for medical use and subject to regulatory evaluation before market authorization.
    The pharmaceutical company submitted clinical data to obtain approval for the new drug.

Forms

  • new drug

Commentary

In legal contexts, "new drug" frequently entails regulatory significance under statutes like the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, emphasizing the need to distinguish from previously approved substances.


New Drug Application

/ˌnjuː ˈdrʌɡ æplɪˈkeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal proposal submitted to a regulatory authority seeking approval to market a new pharmaceutical drug.
    The pharmaceutical company filed a new drug application with the FDA to obtain marketing authorization.

Forms

  • new drug application
  • new drug applications

Commentary

In drafting, be precise about jurisdiction and regulatory body to clarify procedural requirements.


New Federalism

/ˌnuː ˈfɛdərəˌlɪzəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A political philosophy advocating the transfer of certain powers from the federal government back to the states, emphasizing states' rights and decentralization of authority.
    The Supreme Court's rulings reflected a shift toward new federalism, granting states greater control over education policy.

Forms

  • new federalism

Commentary

New Federalism often marks a shift in judicial interpretation balancing state and federal powers, relevant in constitutional law and policy drafting.


New Hire Paperwork

/ˌnuː ˈhaɪər ˈpeɪpərˌwɜrk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Documents and forms new employees must complete and submit before starting employment, often including tax forms, identification verification, and employment agreements.
    The HR department prepared the new hire paperwork to ensure compliance with labor laws.

Forms

  • new hire paperwork

Commentary

Ensure clarity and completeness in new hire paperwork to avoid future employment disputes and to meet legal and regulatory requirements.


New Start Treaty

/ˌnuː ˈstɑːrt ˈtriːti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A bilateral arms control treaty between the United States and Russia aimed at reducing and limiting deployed strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems.
    The New Start Treaty mandates limits on deployed strategic nuclear arsenals of the U.S. and Russia.

Forms

  • new start treaty

Commentary

Commonly cited simply as 'New START,' the treaty is a key component of modern nuclear arms control law, reflecting formal international commitments on disarmament verification and enforcement.


New Trial

/ˈnjuː ˈtraɪəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A subsequent trial ordered by a court after the original trial is invalidated or reversed, typically due to procedural errors or misconduct.
    The appellate court awarded a new trial due to prejudicial statements made by a witness.

Commentary

A new trial differs from an appeal in that it involves re-examining the facts rather than only reviewing legal errors on the record.


New York Convention

/ˌnjuː ˈjɔrk ˌkɒnvɛnʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An international treaty facilitating the recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards.
    Parties to the dispute relied on the New York Convention to enforce the arbitration award abroad.

Forms

  • new york convention

Commentary

The New York Convention is a cornerstone treaty in international arbitration, often cited for its broad acceptance and uniform standards for enforcing arbitral awards across borders.


Newborn

/ˈnuːbɔːrn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A human infant recently born, particularly important for legal definitions concerning rights, status, and protections after birth.
    The law grants newborns certain protections regarding medical care and parental rights.

Forms

  • newborns

Commentary

The term 'newborn' specifically applies to the period immediately after birth and carries legal significance in contexts such as identity registration, custody, and healthcare rights.


Newly Recognized Rights

/ˈnjuːli ˈrɛkəɡnaɪzd raɪts/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal rights that are identified or accepted by a court or legal system after a period of non-recognition or ambiguous status.
    The court's decision established newly recognized rights for indigenous peoples regarding land use.

Forms

  • newly recognized right

Commentary

Newly recognized rights often arise through judicial interpretation or legislative changes, reflecting evolving societal values or emerging legal principles.


Newsletter

/ˈnjuːzˌlɛtər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A periodically distributed publication containing information or updates, often used by legal entities to communicate with clients or members.
    The law firm issued a monthly newsletter to inform clients about recent regulatory changes.

Forms

  • newsletter
  • newsletters

Commentary

In legal contexts, newsletters serve as a tool for client updates and compliance communications but must ensure accuracy to avoid liability.


Next of Kin

/ˌnɛkst əv ˈkɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person's closest living blood relative or relatives recognized for purposes such as inheritance, notification of death, or legal decisions.
    The hospital contacted the deceased's next of kin to inform them of the situation.

Commentary

Next of kin is often used in statutes and legal documents to identify individuals who have priority in inheritance or decision-making absent a will.


Nexus

/ˈnɛksəs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A connection or link, especially one that establishes a legal relationship such as jurisdiction or liability.
    The court found a sufficient nexus between the defendant's actions and the jurisdiction to proceed with the case.
  2. (n.) A central or focal point where various elements converge, often used in contract or corporate law contexts.
    The contract served as the nexus of all obligations between the parties.

Commentary

In legal drafting, establishing a clear nexus is crucial for asserting jurisdiction or proving causation.

Glossary – NE Terms