QU glossary terms

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

Qualifi

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪ/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To meet the necessary requirements or standards, especially in legal or regulatory contexts.
    The candidate must qualify for the license before practicing law.

Forms

  • qualifies
  • qualified
  • qualifying

Commentary

Use 'qualify' to denote compliance with stipulated legal criteria; ensure clarity on the specific standards or qualifications being referenced.


Qualification

/ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal status or condition required to qualify for a particular role, right, or benefit.
    The qualification for voting includes citizenship and age requirements.
  2. (n.) A restriction, limitation, or exception that modifies the scope or effect of a legal provision or agreement.
    The contract included a qualification limiting liability in case of force majeure.

Commentary

‘Qualification’ often denotes both the criteria enabling legal entitlement and any limiting clause; clarity depends on context.


Qualification Certificate

/ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ˈsɜːrtɪfɪkət/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal document issued by an authorized body certifying that an individual or entity meets established legal or professional standards to perform certain duties or exercise specific rights.
    He obtained a qualification certificate to practice law in the jurisdiction.
  2. (n.) An official credential that confirms compliance with statutory requirements or regulatory qualifications in a particular field or profession.
    The contractor must present a qualification certificate before bidding on government projects.

Forms

  • qualification certificate
  • qualification certificates

Commentary

The term is typically used in contexts involving legal compliance or professional standards; drafting should clarify the issuing authority to avoid ambiguity.


Qualification Criteria

/ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ˈkrɪtɪriə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Standards or requirements used to evaluate and select eligible candidates or entities for a legal process, contract, or privilege.
    The qualification criteria for bidding on the public contract included financial stability and prior experience.

Forms

  • qualification criteria

Commentary

Qualification criteria often frame the threshold conditions in procurement or regulatory contexts and should be clearly defined to avoid disputes.


Qualification Recognition

/ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ˌrɛkəɡˈnɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The formal acknowledgment by a legal authority or institution that a qualification obtained from another jurisdiction is valid and meets the required standards for a specific purpose such as professional practice or academic enrollment.
    The lawyer sought qualification recognition to practice law in the foreign country.

Forms

  • qualification recognition

Commentary

Qualification recognition often requires specific regulatory procedures and may vary widely between jurisdictions depending on reciprocity agreements and statutory requirements.


Qualification Standards

/ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ˈstændərdz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal or regulatory criteria that specify the minimal acceptable requirements for entities or individuals to be eligible for certain roles, duties, or privileges.
    The qualification standards for federal contractors ensure they possess adequate financial stability and technical expertise.
  2. (n.) Statutory or administrative benchmarks used to determine eligibility for public office, licenses, or certifications.
    Candidates must meet the qualification standards outlined by election law to appear on the ballot.

Forms

  • qualification standard

Commentary

Qualification standards are often drafted to balance sufficient rigor with fairness, avoiding undue exclusion while ensuring competence.


Qualified Expert

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd ˈɛkspɜːrt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual recognized by a court as possessing the specialized knowledge, skills, or experience in a particular field, qualified to provide expert testimony.
    The court accepted the witness as a qualified expert in forensic accounting.

Forms

  • qualified expert
  • qualified experts

Commentary

The designation of a qualified expert depends on the legal standards of admissibility; attorneys should carefully assess credentials and apply jurisdiction-specific rules when presenting expert evidence.


Qualified Immunity

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd ɪˈmjunɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal doctrine that shields government officials from liability for civil damages if their actions did not violate clearly established statutory or constitutional rights.
    The officer asserted qualified immunity to avoid being sued for damages after the alleged rights violation.

Commentary

Qualified immunity is often contested in civil rights litigation; precise factual and legal standards should be carefully drafted to clarify when immunity applies.


Qualified Investor

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd ɪnˈvɛstər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual or entity meeting specific legal criteria to invest in certain restricted financial securities or offerings.
    Only a qualified investor may participate in this private equity fund.
  2. (n.) A person or organization that satisfies regulatory thresholds of wealth, income, or expertise allowing access to unregistered or exempt securities.
    The securities were sold exclusively to qualified investors under the exemption from registration.

Forms

  • qualified investor
  • qualified investors

Commentary

Definition and thresholds for a qualified investor vary by jurisdiction; precise criteria should be confirmed in the applicable regulatory framework.


Qualified Opinion

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd əˈpɪnjən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An auditor's report expressing reservations about the financial statements, indicating they are mostly reliable but with certain exceptions.
    The auditor issued a qualified opinion due to discrepancies in the inventory records.

Forms

  • qualified opinion
  • qualified opinions

Commentary

A qualified opinion signals specific exceptions identified by the auditor; care should be taken to clearly specify the scope and nature of the qualification in audit reports.


Qualified Person

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd ˈpɜːrsən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual recognized by law or regulation as possessing the requisite skills, credentials, or certification to perform specific professional duties or oversee compliance.
    A qualified person must approve the environmental impact assessment before the project proceeds.

Forms

  • qualified person
  • qualified persons

Commentary

The designation often depends on jurisdiction-specific criteria and may require formal licensing or certification. When drafting, specify the standards or authorities establishing qualification.


Qualified Purchaser

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd pɜːrtʃəsər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual or entity meeting specified asset or investment thresholds under U.S. securities laws, qualified to invest in certain private investment funds.
    Only a qualified purchaser may invest in this hedge fund due to the high risks involved.

Forms

  • qualified purchaser
  • qualified purchasers

Commentary

The term 'qualified purchaser' is specifically defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and differs from 'accredited investor' by having higher asset thresholds; important to verify statutory definitions in drafting.


Qualified Rollover

/ˈkwɒlɪˌfaɪd ˈroʊˌoʊvər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A tax-deferred transfer of assets between eligible retirement plans that meets IRS requirements, preserving the tax-advantaged status.
    He executed a qualified rollover from his 401(k) to an IRA to maintain tax benefits.

Forms

  • qualified rollover
  • qualified rollovers

Commentary

Ensure that the rollover complies with IRS timing and eligibility conditions to avoid taxes or penalties.


Qualify

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪ/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To meet the legal requirements or standards to be eligible for a particular status, benefit, or role.
    The company did not qualify for the tax exemption due to its revenue level.
  2. (v.) To limit or modify the scope or meaning of a legal statement or claim.
    The judge qualified the witness’s testimony by noting inconsistencies.

Forms

  • qualifies
  • qualifying
  • qualified

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'qualify' often involves setting conditions or limitations to avoid overbroad statements or claims.


Qualifying Child

/ˈkwɑːlɪˌfaɪɪŋ tʃaɪld/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual who meets specific criteria under tax law to be claimed as a dependent child for benefits such as the child tax credit.
    To claim the child tax credit, the child must qualify as a qualifying child under IRS rules.

Forms

  • qualifying child
  • qualifying children

Commentary

The term typically involves multiple legal tests (age, relationship, residency, support) for tax and benefit eligibility; precise statutory criteria vary by jurisdiction.


Qualifying Relative

/ˈkwɒlɪfaɪɪŋ ˈrɛləˌtɪv/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who meets specific IRS criteria allowing a taxpayer to claim them as a dependent for tax purposes.
    To claim the qualifying relative exemption, the individual must earn below the income threshold set by the IRS.

Forms

  • qualifying relative
  • qualifying relatives

Commentary

The term applies primarily in U.S. tax law for dependency and exemption claims; precise criteria include relationship, gross income, and support tests.


Quality

/ˈkwɒlɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An attribute or characteristic of a product, service, or legal performance denoting its degree of excellence or conformity to standards.
    The contract requires the supplier to maintain high quality in all delivered goods.
  2. (n.) A legal attribute or characteristic that qualifies or distinguishes a person or thing regarding rights, status, or capacity.
    The quality of party determines their standing to sue in this case.

Commentary

In legal drafting, defining "quality" precisely avoids ambiguity, particularly in contracts specifying standards or attributes of performance or products.


Quality Assurance

/ˈkwɒlɪti əˈʃʊərəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A systematic process within organizations to ensure that products or services meet specified legal and regulatory standards.
    The company implemented strict quality assurance protocols to comply with industry regulations.

Forms

  • quality assurance

Commentary

In legal contexts, quality assurance often pertains to meeting regulatory and contractual standards and may be referenced in compliance documentation and contracts.


Quality Control

/ˈkwɒlɪti kənˈtroʊl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal compliance process ensuring products, services, or processes meet specific regulatory or contractual standards.
    The company implemented strict quality control measures to comply with industry regulations.
  2. (n.) Procedures established in contracts or regulatory frameworks to verify that deliverables conform to agreed-upon criteria.
    The contract included a quality control clause to enforce product standards.

Commentary

Quality control in legal contexts often appears in contractual clauses and regulatory compliance, highlighting the importance of precise standards and enforceable measures.


Quandary

/ˈkwɒn.dri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A state of uncertainty or perplexity in legal decision-making or ethical judgment.
    The attorney found himself in a quandary over whether to disclose the confidential information.

Forms

  • quandary
  • quandaries

Commentary

Often arises in contexts requiring weighing competing legal principles or ethical duties; clarity in framing the dilemma can aid resolution.


Quanta

/ˈkwɒntə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Specific quantified elements or amounts considered in legal contexts, such as damages or assets.
    The court evaluated the quanta of damages awarded to the plaintiff.

Commentary

In legal usage, 'quanta' often pertains to measurable amounts relevant in cases involving damages or contractual obligations.


Quantisation

/ˌkwɒntɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process of converting a continuous variable or legal right into a discrete or defined value for purposes such as valuation, assessment, or digital representation.
    The quantisation of damages in intellectual property cases helps establish precise compensation.

Commentary

In legal drafting, quantisation often relates to setting distinct values or parameters for rights or liabilities, especially in financial or damages contexts.


Quantitative Easing

/ˌkwɒntɪˈteɪtɪv ˈiːzɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A monetary policy whereby a central bank purchases government securities or other financial assets to inject liquidity into the economy and stimulate lending and investment.
    The central bank implemented quantitative easing to boost economic growth during the recession.

Forms

  • quantitative easing

Commentary

In legal contexts, understanding quantitative easing is essential for interpreting regulatory measures affecting financial markets and central bank authorities.


Quantitative Tightening

/ˌkwɒntɪˈteɪtɪv ˈtaɪtənɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A monetary policy action by a central bank to reduce liquidity by selling financial assets, affecting credit availability and economic activity.
    The court examined the regulatory implications of quantitative tightening undertaken by the central bank.

Forms

  • quantitative tightening

Commentary

Quantitative tightening is primarily a financial regulatory term impacting credit markets; legal texts involving central banking or financial law often reference its implications for regulatory compliance and economic policy adjustments.


Quantization

/ˌkwɒntɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process of defining or restricting the possible values of a variable to a discrete set, especially in legal standards for digital evidence or intellectual property involving digital media.
    The court examined the quantization process used to validate the digital video evidence.

Forms

  • quantizations

Commentary

In legal contexts, quantization often relates to digital evidence handling and intellectual property protections involving digital media quality and integrity.


Quantum

/ˈkwɒn.təm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A discrete amount or portion of something, especially in property or damages law referring to the specific sum or quantity due or to be awarded.
    The court awarded a quantum of damages sufficient to compensate the plaintiff.
  2. (n.) In contract law, the principle under quantum meruit where a party is entitled to payment for services rendered when no contract exists or when a contract is unenforceable.
    He claimed payment on the basis of quantum for the work completed despite no formal contract.

Forms

  • quantums

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'quantum' often appears in contexts involving valuation or compensation, notably 'quantum meruit' claims; clarity about the specific quantum involved helps prevent ambiguity in awards or settlements.


Quantum Meruit

/ˈkwɒntəm ˈmɛrɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle allowing recovery for the value of work performed when no contract exists or when a contract is unenforceable.
    The contractor sued on quantum meruit after the client refused to pay under the void contract.
  2. (n.) An equitable remedy to prevent unjust enrichment by compensating a party for benefits conferred.
    Quantum meruit ensures that one party is not unjustly enriched at another's expense.

Commentary

Quantum meruit claims often arise where no express contract exists, requiring precise proof of value and benefit conferred.


Quarantine

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal isolation or restriction of movement of persons, animals, or goods to prevent spread of disease.
    The government imposed a quarantine on all travelers arriving from the affected region.
  2. (v.) To place under legal isolation or restriction to prevent the spread of contagion.
    Authorities quarantined the ship after discovering infected passengers.

Forms

  • quarantines
  • quarantined
  • quarantining

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'quarantine' typically refers to measures authorized by public health laws to prevent disease transmission; drafting should clarify the scope, duration, and enforcing authority of quarantine provisions.


Quarantine Authority

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn ɔːˈθɒrɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A government or official body empowered to impose and enforce quarantine measures to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
    The quarantine authority ordered the closure of the port to control the outbreak.

Forms

  • quarantine authority

Commentary

Typically denotes an administrative or regulatory agency with statutory powers to impose quarantines; important for clear statutory delegation in health law.


Quarantine Board

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn bɔːrd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A governmental or official body established to enforce quarantine laws and regulations, especially relating to the control of infectious diseases.
    The Quarantine Board ordered the ship to remain docked until all passengers were cleared of contagious illness.

Forms

  • quarantine board
  • quarantine boards

Commentary

The term specifically denotes an administrative entity with jurisdiction over quarantine enforcement, often activated during epidemics or pandemics.


Quarantine Inspection

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn ɪnˈspɛkʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official examination of goods or persons to prevent the spread of contagious diseases or pests.
    The customs officer conducted a quarantine inspection to ensure no harmful pests entered the country.

Forms

  • quarantine inspection
  • quarantine inspections

Commentary

Quarantine inspections are specialized checks often mandated by public health laws to control the spread of disease and invasive species during importation or entry.


Quarantine Measures

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn ˈmɛʒərz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal and administrative actions imposed to isolate individuals, animals, or goods to prevent the spread of contagious diseases or pests.
    The government enacted quarantine measures to control the outbreak of the infectious disease.
  2. (n.) Regulatory practices restricting movement and contact in designated areas during public health emergencies.
    Quarantine measures included limiting travel and closing public spaces to contain the virus.

Forms

  • quarantine measures
  • quarantine measure

Commentary

Quarantine measures often involve temporary restrictions ordered by public health authorities and must balance public safety with individual rights.


Quarantine Order

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn ˈɔːrdər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal directive issued by a competent authority mandating the isolation or restriction of movement of individuals, animals, or goods to prevent the spread of contagious disease.
    The health department issued a quarantine order to contain the outbreak.

Forms

  • quarantine order
  • quarantine orders

Commentary

Quarantine orders are typically time-limited and must comply with due process to balance public health needs and individual rights.


Quarantine Regulations

/ˈkwɔːrənˌtiːn ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃənz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Rules and directives imposed by authorities to isolate persons, animals, or goods to prevent the spread of contagious diseases or pests.
    The government enacted new quarantine regulations to control the outbreak.

Forms

  • quarantine regulation

Commentary

Quarantine regulations typically arise under public health law and may vary by jurisdiction; clarity in scope and duration is essential to ensure enforceability.


Quarantine Rule

/ˈkwɒrəntiːn ruːl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal directive imposing isolation or restricted movement to prevent spread of infectious disease.
    The quarantine rule mandates a 14-day isolation period for travelers from high-risk regions.

Forms

  • quarantine rule
  • quarantine rules

Commentary

Quarantine rules are typically enacted by public health authorities and are essential for disease control; clear definition and scope are critical in legal drafting to prevent overreach.


Quarantine Zone

/ˈkwɔːrənˌtiːn zoʊn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally established area in which movement is restricted to prevent the spread of contagious disease or contamination.
    The government declared the downtown area a quarantine zone to contain the outbreak.

Forms

  • quarantine zone
  • quarantine zones

Commentary

Quarantine zones are typically established by public health authorities during epidemics or hazardous contamination scenarios, with legal implications for enforcement and civil liberties.


Quartering of Troops

/ˈkwɔːrtərɪŋ əv truːps/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The housing of soldiers in private homes or other buildings, often by legal requirement or military order, historically subjected to regulation under constitutional law.
    The Third Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits the quartering of troops in private homes without the owner's consent.

Forms

  • quartering of troops

Commentary

This term primarily arises in constitutional law contexts addressing the balance between military necessity and private property rights, notably under the U.S. Third Amendment.


Quarterly

/ˈkwɔːrtərli/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Occurring or produced every three months or four times a year, especially regarding reports, payments, or meetings in legal or corporate contexts.
    The company must file its quarterly financial statements by the end of April.
  2. (adv.) At intervals of three months; every quarter.
    Dividends are paid quarterly to shareholders.

Forms

  • quarterly (adv.)

Commentary

Commonly used in legal and corporate contexts to specify frequency of financial reporting, payments, and procedural events.


Quarters

/ˈkwɔːrtərz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Living accommodations or housing provided, especially by employers or the military.
    The soldiers were assigned quarters on the base.
  2. (n.) One of four equal parts into which something is divided, often regarding property or shares.
    Each partner owns a quarter of the business.
  3. (n.) A period of three months in a fiscal or calendar year used for accounting or legal reporting.
    The company filed its financial report for the second quarter.

Forms

  • quarters

Commentary

In legal contexts, "quarters" commonly refers to housing or to a division of property or time; clarity depends on context.


Quash

/kwɒʃ/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To annul or void a legal proceeding, order, or subpoena by authoritative order.
    The court decided to quash the subpoena due to procedural errors.
  2. (v.) To suppress or reject officially a pleading or indictment.
    The defense moved to quash the indictment citing lack of jurisdiction.

Forms

  • quashes
  • quashing
  • quashed

Commentary

Commonly used in the context of pre-trial motions to invalidate or suppress procedural instruments or filings.


Quasi

/ˈkwɑːzaɪ/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Having a resemblance to or semblance of; resembling but not being actually or legally so.
    The court recognized the quasi-contract as binding despite lacking a formal agreement.
  2. (adj.) Describing acts, duties, or entities that are partly or almost, but not wholly, within a certain legal category or status.
    A quasi-judicial body has limited powers resembling those of a court.

Commentary

Often used as a prefix in legal terminology to denote partial analogues to formal legal concepts; it highlights similarity without full equivalence and guides interpretation of ambiguous legal statuses.


Quasi-Contract

/ˈkwɑː.zaɪ ˈkɒn.trækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal obligation resembling a contract imposed by law to prevent unjust enrichment, despite no formal agreement between the parties.
    The court imposed a quasi-contract to ensure the plaintiff was compensated for the benefit conferred.

Forms

  • quasi-contracts

Commentary

Quasi-contracts are not true contracts but legal constructs to enforce restitution; useful in cases lacking mutual assent.


Quasi-Governmental Agency

/ˈkwɑːza ˌɡʌvərnmɛntl ˈeɪdʒənsi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An organization that operates with some governmental authority and functions but retains partial private sector control or funding.
    The quasi-governmental agency was responsible for managing public utilities while maintaining independence from direct government control.

Forms

  • quasi-governmental agency
  • quasi-governmental agencies

Commentary

Use to denote entities with hybrid public-private characteristics, important in contexts of accountability and regulatory scope.


Quasi-Governmental Body

/ˌkwɑːzi ˌɡʌvərnˈmɛntl ˈbɒdi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An organization or agency created by government but operated with some degree of independence and authority to perform specific public functions.
    The quasi-governmental body regulates utilities while operating independently from direct government control.

Forms

  • quasi-governmental body
  • quasi-governmental bodies

Commentary

Used to describe entities that blend governmental and private sector characteristics; drafting should clarify the degree of government control and legal status.


Quasi-Governmental Entity

/ˈkwɑːzaˌɡʌvərnmɛntl ˈɛntɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An organization that operates with governmental authority but is partly independent from direct government control, often created by statute to perform public functions.
    The quasi-governmental entity managed the public housing project with some autonomy from the city government.

Forms

  • quasi-governmental entity
  • quasi-governmental entities

Commentary

Quasi-governmental entities blend public and private characteristics, so clarity in drafting their statutory powers and limits is crucial.


Quasi-Judicial

/ˌkwɑːzaɪˈuːdɪʃəl/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Having powers and procedures resembling those of a court of law, especially in administrative or regulatory decisions.
    The agency held a quasi-judicial hearing before issuing the permit.

Commentary

The term is typically used to describe administrative bodies performing functions that include fact-finding and rule application similar to courts but within executive agencies.


Quasi-Judicial Body

/ˌkwɑːziˌdʒuːˈdɪʃəl ˈbɒdi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An entity or organ, often administrative, vested with the authority to adjudicate disputes or make decisions that affect legal rights or obligations without being a formal court.
    The land dispute was decided by a quasi-judicial body rather than a traditional court.

Forms

  • quasi-judicial body
  • quasi-judicial bodies

Commentary

Quasi-judicial bodies operate with features similar to courts but within administrative or specialized institutional contexts; drafters should clarify the scope of their authority and procedural rules.


Quasi-Judicial Officer

/ˈkwɒzaɪˈdʒuːdɪʃəl ˈɒfɪsər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official or body authorized to adjudicate or make decisions in administrative or legal matters with powers resembling those of a court.
    The quasi-judicial officer reviewed the license application and issued a ruling based on the evidence.

Forms

  • quasi-judicial officer
  • quasi-judicial officers

Commentary

Quasi-judicial officers exercise functions that require impartial decision-making and procedural fairness but are distinct from judges; clarity on their scope and authority is crucial in legal drafting.


Quasi-Judicial Process

/ˌkwɑːzaɪuˈdɪʃəl ˈproʊsɛs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A procedural mechanism resembling a court trial, bestowed upon administrative agencies or other bodies to resolve disputes or make decisions affecting rights or obligations.
    The licensing board conducted a quasi-judicial process before revoking his professional license.

Forms

  • quasi-judicial process
  • quasi-judicial processes

Commentary

Quasi-judicial processes require adherence to fairness and impartiality, blending judicial characteristics with administrative functions; it is essential to distinguish these from purely legislative or executive actions.


Quasi-Property

/ˈkwɒzaɪˈprɒpəti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal right resembling property rights in certain respects but lacking full traditional property characteristics, often recognized in contexts like information or intangible interests.
    The court treated the confidential information as a quasi-property to grant equitable relief.

Forms

  • quasi-properties

Commentary

Quasi-property is often used to describe rights that are enforceable against specific parties and resemble property but do not confer absolute ownership; drafting should clarify the nature and scope of these rights to prevent ambiguity.


Queen

/kwin/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A female sovereign or monarch, often hereditary, ruling a kingdom or territory under constitutional or absolute powers.
    The queen exercised her constitutional duties during the parliamentary session.
  2. (n.) The wife or widow of a king, holding a title often associated with certain legal and social privileges.
    The queen consort held ceremonial roles but no governing authority.
  3. (n.) In legal symbolism, a representation of royal authority, often appearing on state seals, documents, and insignia.
    The queen's seal authenticated the royal decree.

Forms

  • queens

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'queen' typically denotes female monarchy or consort status; distinctions between queen regnant and queen consort are legally significant, especially in constitutional interpretation.


Queen's Counsel

/ˈkwiːnz ˈkaʊnsəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawyer appointed by the monarch to be one of 'Her Majesty's Counsel learned in the law', recognized for excellence in advocacy.
    She was honored as Queen's Counsel in recognition of her outstanding legal expertise.

Forms

  • queen's counsel
  • queens counsel

Commentary

The title denotes a mark of distinction and seniority in common law jurisdictions; usage depends on the monarch's gender.


Query

/ˈkwɪəri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal or official question, especially one put to a witness or party in a legal proceeding.
    The lawyer raised a query about the admissibility of the evidence.
  2. (v.) To ask a question or express doubt regarding a fact or point of law in a legal context.
    The judge queried the accuracy of the plaintiff's statement.

Forms

  • query
  • queries
  • queried
  • querying

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'query' often denotes raising formal questions needing precise answers; distinguish from informal questioning.


Question

/ˈkwes.tʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A point of law or fact in dispute or requiring determination by a court or tribunal.
    The judge addressed the question of jurisdiction before proceeding.
  2. (n.) An inquiry put formally or officially, often demanding an answer under oath.
    The witness faced a series of questions during cross-examination.
  3. (v.) To interrogate or examine someone formally, especially in legal proceedings.
    The attorney questioned the witness about the events on the night in question.

Forms

  • questions
  • questioned
  • questioning

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'question' covers both substantive points for adjudication and procedural acts of interrogation; clarity depends on usage.


Question of Fact

/ˈkwɛstʃən əv ˈfækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A factual issue that must be resolved by the trier of fact rather than by the court as a matter of law.
    Whether the defendant was present at the scene is a question of fact for the jury to decide.

Forms

  • question of fact
  • questions of fact

Commentary

Distinguish questions of fact from questions of law; the former involves factual determinations made by a jury or judge, while the latter involves legal interpretations decided by the court.


Question of Law

/ˈkwes.tʃən əv ˌlɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A question concerning the interpretation or application of the law, distinct from questions of fact.
    The judge ruled that the issue was a question of law and therefore subject to de novo review.

Forms

  • question of law
  • questions of law

Commentary

Questions of law are decided by judges, not juries, and often determine the applicable legal standards before factual determinations.


Queue

/ˈkjuː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A line or sequence of people or things awaiting their turn, often used in legal contexts to describe the order of cases or claims.
    The court clerk managed the queue of cases scheduled for hearing.

Forms

  • queue
  • queues
  • queued
  • queuing

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'queue' often refers to the procedural order of cases or documents rather than just a physical line, so clarity about context is advisable.


Qui Tam

/ˈkwiː tæm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal provision allowing a private individual to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the government and share in any recovery, typically used in fraud cases against the government.
    The whistleblower filed a qui tam action under the False Claims Act.

Forms

  • qui tam

Commentary

Usually arises under statutes like the False Claims Act; requires the relator to act in the government's name but privately initiates the suit.


Qui Tam Action

/ˈkwi tɑːm ˈækʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawsuit brought by a private individual on behalf of the government alleging fraud against government programs, allowing the informer to share in any recovery.
    The whistleblower filed a qui tam action against the contractor for defrauding the government.

Forms

  • qui tam action
  • qui tam actions

Commentary

Qui tam actions require the plaintiff, known as the relator, to possess knowledge of fraud against the government, and adhere to procedural rules such as filing under seal.


Quick Ratio

/ˈkwɪk ˈreɪʃi.oʊ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A financial metric used to evaluate a company's short-term liquidity by measuring its ability to cover immediate liabilities with its most liquid assets.
    The quick ratio indicates whether a company can meet its short-term obligations without selling inventory.

Forms

  • quick ratio
  • quick ratios

Commentary

In legal contexts, quick ratio often appears in financial due diligence and compliance assessments to evaluate a company's financial health.


Quid

/kwɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal term meaning a thing or a quid pro quo, typically denoting something given in exchange or consideration in a contract or agreement.
    The parties agreed on the quid to be exchanged to finalize the deal.

Commentary

Often used in legal contexts to denote an item or consideration exchanged in return for something else; can imply mutual obligations in contractual agreements.


Quid Pro Quo

/ˌkwɪd proʊ ˈkwoʊ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An exchange in which one thing is given or received in return for another, often used in contract law and employment law contexts to denote mutual consideration or a reciprocal arrangement.
    The employment contract included a clear quid pro quo: the employee would provide services in exchange for a salary.
  2. (n.) In legal ethics and anti-corruption law, an arrangement involving the exchange of favors or goods for political or official influence, sometimes grounds for claims of bribery or corruption.
    The investigation centered on a quid pro quo involving government contracts awarded in return for political donations.

Commentary

Use with care to specify the nature of the exchange; in litigation, establishing a quid pro quo can be crucial to proving a breach of contract or improper conduct.


Quid Pro Quo Harassment

/ˌkwɪd proʊ ˈkwoʊ ˈhærəsmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A form of workplace sexual harassment where submission to or rejection of sexual conduct is explicitly tied to employment decisions.
    The employee filed a complaint alleging quid pro quo harassment after being denied a promotion for refusing her supervisor's advances.

Forms

  • quid pro quo harassment

Commentary

Quid pro quo harassment specifically involves a direct exchange condition in employment settings, unlike hostile work environment harassment which involves pervasive conduct.


Quiet Enjoyment

/ˈkwaɪət ɪnˌdʒɔɪmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A landlord's legal promise that a tenant can possess and use leased property without interference from third parties claiming superior title.
    The lease includes a covenant of quiet enjoyment to protect the tenant's use of the premises.
  2. (n.) A tenant's right to actual possession and undisturbed use of rented property as agreed in the lease.
    The tenant sued for breach of quiet enjoyment when the landlord repeatedly entered the apartment without notice.

Forms

  • quiet enjoyment
  • quiet enjoyments

Commentary

The term appears primarily in landlord-tenant law; it is crucial to distinguish between the covenant by the landlord and the tenant’s right to undisturbed possession. Draft leases should explicitly define the scope of the covenant to avoid disputes.


Quiet Title

/ˈkwaɪ.ɪt taɪtl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawsuit to establish ownership of property and remove claims or disputes on the title.
    The homeowner filed a quiet title action to clear the disputed claims on his land.

Forms

  • quiet titles

Commentary

A quiet title action is a vital remedy to resolve title uncertainties, often used before property sale or development; precise pleading of claims and proper jurisdiction are crucial for success.


Quiet Title Action

/ˈkwaɪət ˈtaɪtl ˈækʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawsuit filed to establish clear ownership of real property and to resolve any competing claims or disputes over the title.
    The plaintiff initiated a quiet title action to remove any clouds on the property's title.

Forms

  • quiet title actions

Commentary

Often used to clear title defects or claims; precise complaint drafting is critical to name all potential claimants and include a thorough chain of title.


Quintessence

/kwɪnˈtɛsns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The most perfect or typical example of a quality or class, often used in legal theory to denote the purest essence of a legal principle.
    The judge's ruling was seen as the quintessence of judicial integrity.

Commentary

In legal writing, 'quintessence' is typically used metaphorically to highlight the core or purest form of a rule or concept rather than in a technical legal sense.


Quit

/kwɪt/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To voluntarily give up a right, claim, or property interest, often by formal renunciation.
    The tenant quit the premises upon lease termination.
  2. (v.) To leave or resign from employment or office.
    She decided to quit her job without notice.
  3. (n.) The act of voluntarily leaving a position or relinquishing a claim.
    The employee's quit was unexpected and left the company unprepared.

Forms

  • quits
  • quitting
  • quit (past tense)

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'quit' often implies a formal or voluntary surrender of rights or possession, underscoring the importance of clear intent and documentation.


Quitclaim

/ˈkwɪtˌkleɪm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal instrument used to release any claim one party may have to a property, without guaranteeing title validity.
    The seller executed a quitclaim deed to transfer whatever interest he had in the land.

Forms

  • quitclaims
  • quitclaimed
  • quitclaiming

Commentary

A quitclaim deed conveys only the interest the grantor has, if any, without warranties; useful in clearing title defects or transferring property between familiar parties.


Quitclaim Deed

/ˈkwɪtˌkleɪm diːd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A deed that transfers any ownership interest the grantor may have in a property without warranties or guarantees of title.
    The seller used a quitclaim deed to transfer property interest without guaranteeing clear title.

Forms

  • quitclaim deeds

Commentary

A quitclaim deed provides no assurance of title validity, making it commonly used between familiar parties or to clear title defects.


Quitting

/ˈkwɪtɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The voluntary act of leaving a job or position before the end of a contract or without notice.
    Her quitting left the company short-staffed just before the audit.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'quitting' often implies voluntary departure but must be distinguished from dismissal or constructive discharge.


Quo Warranto

/ˌkwoʊ wəˈrænˌtoʊ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A writ or legal proceeding requiring a person to show by what authority they exercise a claimed power or right, typically used to challenge unlawful usurpation of public office or franchise.
    The government filed a quo warranto petition to contest the validity of the newly appointed official's claim to office.

Commentary

Quo warranto is primarily a procedural remedy; drafters should be precise in alleging the authority allegedly misused and the office or franchise involved.


Quorum

/ˈkwɔːrəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The minimum number of members of a deliberative body required to be present to conduct business legally.
    The meeting was postponed due to a lack of quorum.

Commentary

Quorum requirements ensure legitimacy and procedural validity of decisions made by bodies such as legislatures, boards, and committees.


Quota

/ˈkwoʊtə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally or contractually fixed share or proportion of a total amount or quantity, such as goods, services, or rights, allocated to a person or group.
    The country was allocated a quota of imports under the trade agreement.
  2. (n.) A limited or fixed number or amount recognized by law or regulation, for example, the number of licenses issued or the number of persons admitted.
    The immigration quota restricts the number of visas granted annually.

Forms

  • quotas

Commentary

Typically used to specify legally imposed limits or shares; precision in drafting is vital to distinguish fixed quotas from flexible or discretionary allocations.


Quota System

/ˈkwoʊtə ˈsɪstəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A regulatory mechanism that sets fixed limits or shares, often for imports, employment, or resource allocation, used to control quantities within legal or administrative frameworks.
    The government implemented a quota system to restrict the number of foreign workers in certain industries.

Forms

  • quota system

Commentary

Quota systems require precise legal drafting to clarify applicable limits, affected parties, and enforcement mechanisms.


Quotation

/ˌkwəʊtəˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A verbatim excerpt from a legal text or precedent cited to support a legal argument.
    The lawyer included a quotation from the Supreme Court ruling in her brief.
  2. (n.) A formal statement of the estimated price for legal services or a transaction.
    The firm provided a quotation before undertaking the contract drafting.

Forms

  • quotations

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguishing between textual quotations and price quotations avoids ambiguity; proper attribution and accuracy are essential in legal quotations.


Quotation Marks

/ˈkwoʊteɪʃən mɑːrks/

Definitions

  1. (n. pl.) Punctuation marks used in legal texts to denote direct speech, quotations, or cited material, ensuring clarity and precision in legal drafting.
    The lawyer used quotation marks to accurately present the witness's statement within the contract.

Forms

  • quotation mark (singular)

Commentary

Quotation marks are critical in legal documents to differentiate between original text and cited or spoken words, helping avoid ambiguity or misinterpretation.

Glossary – QU Terms