SH glossary terms

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

Shade

/ʃeɪd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A degree of darkness or color gradient that may affect the interpretation of documents or trademarks.
    The trademark's distinct shade of blue helped establish its recognition in court.
  2. (n.) An anatomical or geographical area shielded from direct light, sometimes relevant in property or environmental law disputes.
    The court considered the shade cast by the new construction in the property dispute.

Forms

  • shades

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'shade' often relates to color distinctions in trademarks or the effect of light/shadow in property and environmental law assessments; precise description can impact legal outcomes.


Shadow

/'ʃædoʊ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An ambiguous or concealed interest or relationship in legal contexts, often implying undisclosed influence or control.
    The court investigated the shadow ownership behind the corporation.
  2. (n.) A legal practice or entity acting as a covert or unofficial analogue to a recognized position, such as a 'shadow director' who exercises control without official appointment.
    The shadow director was held liable alongside the appointed directors.

Commentary

In legal usage, 'shadow' often qualifies roles or interests that are unofficial or hidden, signaling a need for scrutiny beyond formal documentation.


Shadow Cabinet

/ˈʃædoʊ ˈkæbɪnɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A group of opposition party members who monitor and critique the policies and actions of the current government ministers, often preparing to assume office.
    The Shadow Cabinet proposed alternative legislative reforms to counter the government's policy.

Forms

  • shadow cabinet
  • shadow cabinets

Commentary

In legal and parliamentary contexts, the Shadow Cabinet functions as an official opposition body, important for maintaining governmental accountability.


Shadow Counsel

/ˈʃædoʊ ˈkaʊnsəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An attorney retained privately to protect a party's interests during legal proceedings, often without official recognition by the court or opposing counsel.
    The defendant hired a shadow counsel to oversee the trial strategy discreetly.

Commentary

Shadow counsel is often used in contexts where the formally appointed counsel's loyalty is in question, ensuring an independent legal perspective for the client.


Shadow Director

/ˈʃædoʊ dəˈrɛktər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual who is not officially appointed as a director but who in fact directs or controls the company’s board or operations.
    The court found that he was a shadow director and thus liable for the company's debts.

Forms

  • shadow directors

Commentary

Shadow directors may be held liable as if they were formal directors; identifying them requires evidence of their influence over company decisions.


Shadow Economy

/ˈʃædoʊ ɪˌkɑːnəmi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An economic sector involving goods or services not reported to government authorities to evade regulations, taxation, or social security contributions.
    The government introduced measures to reduce the size of the shadow economy and increase tax revenues.

Forms

  • shadow economy
  • shadow economies

Commentary

The shadow economy is often intertwined with illegal activities but may also include legal goods and services hidden from government oversight to avoid taxes or regulation.


Shadow Labor Market

/ˈʃædoʊ ˈleɪbər ˈmɑrkɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A segment of the labor market where employment is not officially recorded or regulated, often involving informal, undocumented, or illegal work.
    Workers in the shadow labor market often lack legal protections and benefits.

Forms

  • shadow labor market

Commentary

The term underscores unregulated labor practices; legal approaches often focus on detection and regulation to protect workers' rights.


Shadow of Doubt

/ˈʃæd.oʊ əv daʊt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal standard referring to the presence of minimal uncertainty in evidence insufficient to negate guilt or liability.
    The jury's conviction was sustained because the defendant was not even within a shadow of doubt regarding his guilt.

Commentary

Used primarily to describe a level of uncertainty less than reasonable doubt; often appears in judicial opinions emphasizing the insufficiency of evidence to exclude all uncertainty.


Shall

/ʃæl/

Definitions

  1. (v.) Expresses a mandatory or obligatory action in legal documents.
    The lessee shall pay rent on the first day of each month.
  2. (v.) Indicates a future action or event in certain legal contexts.
    The court shall issue its ruling within 30 days.

Forms

  • shall

Commentary

In legal drafting, "shall" denotes mandatory requirements but can cause ambiguity; modern practice favors "must" for clarity.


Sham

/ˈʃæm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person or thing intended to deceive by falsely presenting as genuine.
    The contract was declared void because it was a sham transaction designed to evade taxes.
  2. (adj.) Falsely presented or counterfeit, lacking authenticity or legal validity.
    The parties entered into a sham agreement with no real intent to perform.

Forms

  • shams
  • shamming
  • shammed

Commentary

In legal contexts, a 'sham' commonly refers to transactions or agreements made to appear legitimate but intended to mislead, often rendering them void or unenforceable.


Sham Transaction

/ˈʃæm trænˌzækʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A transaction or contract intended to deceive by disguising the true nature of the underlying agreement or to evade legal obligations.
    The court declared the agreement a sham transaction and refused to enforce it.

Forms

  • sham transactions

Commentary

A sham transaction is characterized by intent to mislead courts or third parties, often used in contexts involving fraud or attempts to circumvent law; courts may look beyond form to substance to assess validity.


Sham Transaction Doctrine

/ˈʃæm trænˈzækʃən ˈdɒktrɪn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle treating transactions created solely to disguise the true nature of a deal as void or ineffective.
    The court applied the sham transaction doctrine to invalidate the contrived sale designed to evade taxes.

Forms

  • sham transaction doctrine

Commentary

Use when a transaction is formally documented but intended to mislead or conceal the real intent; courts disregard such transactions to prevent abuse.


Shame

/ˈʃeɪm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A moral or social feeling of guilt, disgrace, or dishonor often invoked in the context of legal sanctions or reputational harm.
    The court’s ruling caused considerable shame to the corporation for its unethical practices.

Commentary

In legal contexts, "shame" often relates to reputational injury or moral consequences rather than a strictly legal cause of action.


Share

/ʃɛər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A unit of ownership interest in a corporation or financial asset.
    She owns 100 shares of the company.
  2. (v.) To participate in or have a portion of something jointly with others, especially profits or liabilities.
    The partners share the profits equally.

Forms

  • shares
  • sharing
  • shared

Commentary

In legal drafting, clarify whether 'share' references ownership units or the act of dividing or using jointly to avoid ambiguity.


Share Acquisition

/ˈʃɛər ˌækwɪˈzɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal process by which one party purchases shares in a company, thereby acquiring ownership rights.
    The share acquisition led to a controlling interest in the target company.

Forms

  • share acquisition

Commentary

Share acquisition is often governed by regulatory frameworks to prevent market monopolization and may require compliance with disclosure and approval procedures.


Share Assignment

/ˈʃɛər əˌsaɪnmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal process by which ownership of shares in a company is transferred from one party to another.
    The share assignment was duly executed to transfer the shareholder's rights to the buyer.

Forms

  • share assignment
  • share assignments

Commentary

In drafting, ensure clarity on the mode of transfer and any restrictions under company law or shareholders' agreements.


Share Buy-Back

/ˈʃɛər ˈbaɪˌbæk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A corporate action in which a company repurchases its own shares from shareholders, reducing the number of outstanding shares.
    The company announced a share buy-back to increase shareholder value.

Forms

  • share buy-back
  • share buy-backs

Commentary

Share buy-backs are often used to adjust capital structure or signal confidence in the company; legal frameworks regulate the process to protect shareholders and creditors.


Share Buyback

/ˈʃɛər ˈbaɪbæk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A corporate action in which a company repurchases its own shares from the marketplace, reducing the number of outstanding shares.
    The company announced a share buyback program to increase shareholder value.

Forms

  • share buybacks

Commentary

Share buybacks affect ownership percentages and can influence share price; legal attention to disclosure and timing requirements is important.


Share Call

/ˈʃɛər kɔːl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A contractual provision granting an investor the right to purchase additional shares, typically in future financing rounds, to maintain ownership percentage.
    The investor exercised their share call to prevent dilution during the new funding round.

Forms

  • share call
  • share calls

Commentary

A share call often overlaps with preemptive rights but is specifically structured as a contractual call right to buy shares under defined terms.


Share Capital

/ˈʃeər ˈkæpɪtl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total nominal value of shares issued by a company, representing the equity stake paid in by shareholders.
    The company increased its share capital to finance expansion.

Forms

  • share capital

Commentary

Share capital is a fundamental corporate finance term reflecting ownership; drafting should distinguish it from authorized or issued capital for clarity.


Share Certificate

/ˈʃɛər səˌtɪfɪkət/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal document evidencing ownership of a specified number of shares in a corporation.
    She presented her share certificate as proof of her stock ownership.

Forms

  • share certificate
  • share certificates

Commentary

A share certificate functions as tangible evidence of share ownership but may be replaced or supplemented by electronic records in modern securities practice.


Share Dilution

/ˈʃɛr dɪˌluːʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The reduction in existing shareholders' ownership percentage due to the issuance of additional shares.
    The company’s new stock issuance caused significant share dilution for early investors.

Commentary

Share dilution commonly arises in corporate finance during new equity issuances and can affect shareholder control and value.


Share Issuance

/ˈʃer ɪˈsjuːəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The process by which a corporation issues new shares to investors, increasing the total shares outstanding and raising capital.
    The company announced a share issuance to fund its expansion projects.

Forms

  • share issuance

Commentary

Typically used in corporate and securities law contexts; careful drafting is needed to specify the rights attached to newly issued shares.


Share Premium

/ˈʃɛər ˈprimiəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The amount received by a company over and above the par value of its shares issued.
    The company recorded a significant share premium on its latest stock issuance.

Forms

  • share premium
  • share premiums

Commentary

Share premium accounts reflect the additional paid-in capital beyond nominal share value and are important for tracking premium contributions in corporate equity.


Share Premium Reserve

/ˈʃɛər ˈprɪmiəm rɪˈzɜrv/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An equity account reflecting the amount received by a company from shareholders exceeding the nominal value of issued shares.
    The company recorded a large credit in the share premium reserve after issuing shares above their par value.

Forms

  • share premium reserve

Commentary

Typically distinct from stated capital, the share premium reserve represents funds that may be subject to restrictions on distribution as dividends depending on jurisdiction.


Share Purchase

/ˈʃɛər ˈpɜːrtʃəs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal agreement by which ownership of shares in a company is transferred from the seller to the buyer.
    The parties executed the share purchase to transfer the stock ownership.
  2. (n.) The act or process of acquiring shares in a corporation or company, often as part of a corporate transaction or investment.
    The investor completed a share purchase to gain controlling interest.

Forms

  • share purchases

Commentary

Often used interchangeably with 'share sale'; ensure the agreement clearly defines the scope and terms to avoid ambiguity in share transfer.


Share Purchase Agreement

/ˈʃɛər ˈpɜːrtʃəs əˈɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A binding contract whereby a buyer agrees to purchase shares from a seller under specified terms and conditions.
    The parties signed the share purchase agreement to complete the acquisition of the company.
  2. (n.) A legal document outlining the rights, obligations, and warranties related to the sale and transfer of corporate shares.
    The share purchase agreement included warranties concerning the target company's financial status.

Forms

  • share purchase agreements

Commentary

The term specifically addresses share transfers in corporate acquisitions and differs from asset purchase agreements; precise warranties and conditions are critical.


Share Repurchase

/ˈʃɛər rɪˌpɜːrtʃəs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The corporate action in which a company buys back its own outstanding shares from the marketplace, reducing the number of shares available.
    The board approved a share repurchase to increase shareholder value.

Forms

  • share repurchases

Commentary

Share repurchases are often used as a mechanism to return capital to shareholders and can affect per-share metrics; careful legal drafting should clarify the authority, limits, and effects on shareholder rights.


Share Transfer

/ˈʃɛər ˈtrænsfər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act of legally transferring ownership of shares in a corporation or company from one person or entity to another.
    The share transfer was recorded with the company registrar to formalize the new ownership.

Forms

  • share transfer
  • share transfers

Commentary

Share transfers must comply with company bylaws and statutory requirements to be effective and enforceable.


Share Transfer Restrictions

/ˈʃɛər trænsˌfɜːr rɪˈstrɪkʃənz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal provisions limiting the ability to sell or transfer shares in a corporation or company.
    The shareholders agreed to include share transfer restrictions to control new ownership.

Forms

  • share transfer restrictions
  • share transfer restriction

Commentary

Share transfer restrictions commonly appear in private company agreements to maintain control over ownership changes and prevent unwanted shareholders.


Shared Interest

/ˈʃɛrd ˈɪntrɪst/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A mutual stake or right in a property, venture, or legal matter held jointly by two or more parties.
    The parties had a shared interest in the success of the joint venture.
  2. (n.) A common legal or financial concern that aligns the positions of different parties, often relevant in conflict of interest analysis.
    The attorney disclosed any shared interest that might affect his impartiality.

Forms

  • shared interest

Commentary

The term 'shared interest' is often used in property law and corporate law contexts to denote joint rights or mutual stakes. Clarity in contracts should specify the nature and extent of shared interests to avoid disputes.


Shared Liability

/ˈʃɛrd ˌlaɪəˈbɪləti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal responsibility shared among two or more parties for a particular obligation or liability.
    The partners faced shared liability for the debts incurred by the business.
  2. (n.) A form of joint liability where each party may be held liable for the entire obligation, subject to internal contribution among them.
    Under shared liability, each guarantor could be pursued for full repayment of the loan.

Forms

  • shared liability

Commentary

Shared liability often requires clear contractual language to define the extent and limits of each party's responsibility.


Shared Resources

/ˈʃɛrd rɪˈzɔrsɪz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Assets, facilities, or services jointly used by multiple parties, often governed by agreements to allocate rights and responsibilities.
    The contract detailed the terms for managing the shared resources between the two companies.

Forms

  • shared resource

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'shared resources' typically implicate rights and duties among co-users, making clear contractual terms essential to avoid disputes.


Shareholder

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual or entity that owns one or more shares in a corporation and thus has an ownership interest in that corporation.
    The shareholder voted on the proposed merger during the annual meeting.

Forms

  • shareholders

Commentary

In legal drafting, specifying shareholder rights and obligations is crucial to clarify governance and ownership matters.


Shareholder Agreement

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər əˈɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A binding contract among a company's shareholders outlining their rights, obligations, and ownership arrangements.
    The shareholder agreement specifies the procedure for transferring shares.
  2. (n.) An agreement that governs corporate governance issues and dispute resolution among shareholders.
    The shareholder agreement includes provisions on voting rights and board appointments.

Forms

  • shareholder agreements

Commentary

Typically drafted to protect minority shareholders and clarify decision-making; precise terms vary by jurisdiction and company structure.



Shareholder Contribution

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər kənˌtrɪbjuˈʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A payment or asset provided by a shareholder to a company, distinct from purchase of shares, often used to support the company’s capital or operations.
    The shareholder contribution helped the startup avoid bankruptcy during its early phase.
  2. (n.) An injection of funds or property by a shareholder that may be recorded as equity or debt depending on the terms agreed upon.
    Shareholder contributions can affect the company’s capitalization and voting structure.

Forms

  • shareholder contribution
  • shareholders contributions

Commentary

Shareholder contributions are distinct from share purchases and should be clearly documented to reflect their nature as equity or debt; drafting should specify terms to avoid disputes over rights and obligations.


Shareholder Corporation

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər ˌkɔːrpəˈreɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A corporation owned by shareholders who hold equity interests and have rights to profits and governance.
    A shareholder corporation issues stock to raise capital and distribute ownership among investors.

Forms

  • shareholder corporation
  • shareholder corporations

Commentary

Used to emphasize the ownership structure centered on shareholders, distinguishing it from other corporation types; important in contexts addressing shareholder rights and corporate control.


Shareholder Derivative Lawsuit

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər dɪˈrɪvətɪ ˈlɔˌsuːt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A lawsuit brought by a shareholder on behalf of a corporation against third parties—often insiders such as executives or directors—alleging harm to the corporation due to breach of fiduciary duty or misconduct that the corporation has failed to address.
    The shareholder derivative lawsuit alleged that the company’s board members violated their fiduciary duties, causing financial harm to the corporation.

Forms

  • shareholder derivative lawsuit
  • shareholder derivative lawsuits

Commentary

Shareholder derivative lawsuits are procedural mechanisms allowing minority shareholders to vindicate corporate rights when management fails to act; careful compliance with demand requirements and standing rules is critical.


Shareholder Derivative Suit

/ˈʃeərˌhoʊldər dɪˈrɪvɪtɪv suːt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal action brought by a shareholder on behalf of a corporation against insiders (such as directors or officers) for breach of fiduciary duty.
    The shareholder derivative suit alleged that the board members misappropriated corporate funds.

Forms

  • shareholder derivative suit
  • shareholder derivative suits

Commentary

Shareholder derivative suits are procedural devices to enforce corporate rights when the corporation’s management fails to act; they require the plaintiff to demonstrate demand futility or compliance with demand requirements.


Shareholder Dispute

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər dɪˈspjut/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A conflict between shareholders often concerning corporate governance, ownership rights, or the management of a corporation.
    The company faced a shareholder dispute over the election of the board members.

Forms

  • shareholder dispute
  • shareholder disputes

Commentary

Shareholder disputes typically arise from disagreements over control, dividend policies, or breaches of fiduciary duty and often require resolution through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.


Shareholder Distribution

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər dɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A payment or transfer of assets by a corporation to its shareholders, typically representing profits or returns on investment.
    The shareholder distribution was declared after the company reported a strong fiscal year.

Forms

  • shareholder distribution
  • shareholder distributions

Commentary

The term specifically refers to the actual transfer to shareholders, distinct from dividends generally, which may have legal and tax implications depending on jurisdiction and corporate structure.


Shareholder Equity

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər ˈɛkwɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The residual interest in the assets of a corporation after deducting liabilities, representing owners' stake.
    The company's shareholder equity increased due to retained earnings.

Commentary

Shareholder equity is often used interchangeably with owner's equity in corporate law and finance contexts; it represents the net value attributable to shareholders after all debts are paid.


Shareholder Funds

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər fʌndz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The total equity capital and retained earnings of a corporation belonging to its shareholders, representing their ownership interest.
    The company's shareholder funds increased significantly after the latest profitable quarter.

Forms

  • shareholder funds
  • shareholder fund

Commentary

Often used interchangeably with 'net assets' in company financial statements, shareholder funds indicate residual interest after liabilities are deducted; precise usage may vary by jurisdiction.


Shareholder Interest

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər ˈɪntrəst/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal and financial stake or equity a shareholder holds in a corporation, entitling them to certain rights and benefits such as voting and dividends.
    The shareholder interest in the company determines the proportion of profits they are entitled to receive.
  2. (n.) A shareholder's right to influence corporate governance through voting or decision-making powers.
    Shareholder interest influences decisions made at the annual general meeting.

Forms

  • shareholder interest
  • shareholder interests

Commentary

In drafting, clarify whether 'shareholder interest' refers to financial stake or governance rights based on context for precision.


Shareholder Lawsuit

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər ˈlɔˌsut/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal action initiated by a shareholder on behalf of a corporation against its directors or officers for breach of fiduciary duty or misconduct.
    The shareholder lawsuit alleged that the company’s executives misappropriated funds.

Forms

  • shareholder lawsuit
  • shareholder lawsuits

Commentary

Shareholder lawsuits often arise as derivative suits, where shareholders sue on behalf of the corporation to remedy wrongs against it.


Shareholder Liability

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər laɪəˈbɪləti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal responsibility of a shareholder to cover a corporation's debts or liabilities, usually limited to their investment amount.
    In most cases, shareholder liability is limited to the amount they invested in the company.
  2. (n.) Situations where shareholders may be held personally liable beyond their investment, such as in cases of fraud or piercing the corporate veil.
    The court imposed shareholder liability because the shareholders were found to have committed fraud.

Forms

  • shareholder liability

Commentary

Generally, shareholder liability is limited, but exceptions arise in specific circumstances like veil piercing, making it a critical concept in corporate law.


Shareholder Litigation

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər ˌlɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal action initiated by a shareholder to enforce rights against a corporation or its management, often to address mismanagement or breaches of fiduciary duty.
    The shareholder litigation alleged that the board violated their fiduciary duties by approving the merger without proper disclosure.

Forms

  • shareholder litigation
  • shareholder litigations

Commentary

Typically involves claims brought on behalf of the corporation or the shareholder class; often requires careful pleading to distinguish from derivative suits.


Shareholder Loan

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər loʊn/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A loan provided to a corporation by one or more of its shareholders, often featuring unique terms reflecting their ownership interest.
    The company recorded the shareholder loan as a liability on its balance sheet.
  2. (n.) A financing arrangement where shareholders lend money to a company in lieu of equity or bank loans, sometimes to support liquidity or growth.
    The startup secured additional capital through a shareholder loan rather than issuing new shares.

Forms

  • shareholder loan
  • shareholder loans

Commentary

Shareholder loans are often subordinate to external debts and require careful documentation to clarify repayment priority and interest terms.


Shareholder Meeting

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər ˈmitɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal assembly of a company's shareholders to discuss and vote on corporate matters.
    The shareholder meeting was convened to approve the merger agreement.
  2. (n.) An annual or special meeting where shareholders exercise their rights such as electing directors or approving financial statements.
    At the annual shareholder meeting, the board presented the company's financial performance.

Forms

  • shareholder meeting
  • shareholder meetings

Commentary

Typically governed by corporate bylaws and statutory requirements, shareholder meetings require proper notice and quorum to validate decisions.


Shareholder Oppression

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər əˈprɛʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Conduct by majority shareholders that unfairly prejudices minority shareholders' rights or interests in a corporation.
    The minority shareholders alleged shareholder oppression when excluded from key decisions.
  2. (n.) A ground for legal relief in corporate law where courts may intervene to protect minority shareholders against abusive acts.
    The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff due to demonstrated shareholder oppression.

Forms

  • shareholder oppression

Commentary

Shareholder oppression often arises in closely held corporations where majority shareholders control decisions; remedying it requires balancing protection for minority stakeholders with respect for majority rule.


Shareholder Register

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldər ˈrɛdʒɪstər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official record maintained by a corporation listing the names and details of its shareholders.
    The shareholder register must be updated after each share transfer.

Forms

  • shareholder register
  • shareholder registers

Commentary

Often required by corporate law to verify ownership and voting rights; accuracy is crucial for compliance and disputes.


Shareholder Resolution

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər rɛzəˈluːʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal proposal submitted by shareholders for a vote at a company's annual meeting or special meeting, typically addressing corporate governance or social issues.
    The shareholders submitted a resolution to require the company to report on its environmental impact.

Forms

  • shareholder resolution
  • shareholder resolutions

Commentary

Drafting shareholder resolutions requires clarity and compliance with procedural rules to ensure the proposal is considered valid and voted upon.


Shareholder Rights

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər raɪts/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal entitlements and powers held by shareholders in a corporation, including voting on corporate matters, receiving dividends, and accessing information.
    Shareholder rights ensure investors can vote on key corporate decisions.

Forms

  • shareholder right

Commentary

Shareholder rights vary by jurisdiction and corporate bylaws; precise drafting can protect minority interests and clarify voting thresholds.


Shareholder Vote

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldər voʊt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal decision-making process by which company shareholders exercise their voting rights on corporate matters.
    The shareholder vote approved the merger agreement.
  2. (n.) The aggregate outcome of voting by all shareholders eligible to vote on a particular issue.
    The results of the shareholder vote were announced at the annual meeting.

Forms

  • shareholder vote
  • shareholder votes

Commentary

The term refers both to the act/process and the collective outcome of voting by shareholders; context clarifies usage.


Shareholder's Interest

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldərz ˈɪntrəst/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legal and financial stake a shareholder holds in a corporation, representing their ownership rights, including voting power and entitlement to dividends.
    The shareholder's interest increased after the company issued a stock dividend.
  2. (n.) The value of a shareholder's equity in a company, reflecting both the monetary worth and the associated rights.
    Her shareholder's interest was significantly affected by the company's restructuring.

Forms

  • shareholder's interest

Commentary

The term encapsulates both the ownership rights and financial value a shareholder holds; clarity is important when distinguishing between rights (voting, dividends) and the economic value of shares.


Shareholders' Agreement

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldərz əˈɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally binding contract among the shareholders of a corporation detailing rights, obligations, and management rules.
    The shareholders' agreement specifies how decisions are made and shares transferred.

Commentary

Often tailored to address control, exit strategies, and dispute resolution among shareholders.


Shareholders' Equity

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldərz ɪˈkwɪti/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The residual interest in the assets of a corporation after deducting liabilities, representing owners' claims.
    The shareholders' equity increased significantly after the company reported higher retained earnings.

Forms

  • shareholders' equity

Commentary

In drafting, clarify whether the term refers to book value of equity or market value, as usage can vary by context.


Shareholders' Meeting

/ˈʃɛrˌhoʊldərz ˈmitɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal gathering of a corporation's shareholders to discuss and vote on corporate matters.
    The shareholders' meeting approved the annual budget and elected new board members.

Commentary

Often governed by specific corporate laws and company bylaws, requiring proper notice and quorum for valid decisions.


Shareholders' Resolution

/ˈʃɛərˌhoʊldərz rɛzəˈluːʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A formal decision or expression of intent adopted by the shareholders of a corporation, usually during a meeting or by written consent, governing corporate affairs.
    The shareholders' resolution approved the merger agreement.

Forms

  • shareholders' resolution
  • shareholders' resolutions

Commentary

Typically requires compliance with statutory procedures and corporate bylaws; clarity in drafting prevents disputes over corporate authority.


Sharia Law

/ˈʃɑːrɪə lɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal system derived from Islamic religious law, governing aspects of daily life and legal matters for Muslims.
    The court applied principles of sharia law in its judgment on family inheritance.

Forms

  • sharia law

Commentary

Sharia law blends religious doctrine with legal principles, influencing personal status laws in some jurisdictions; its application varies widely across countries.


Shark

/ˈʃɑrk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who uses unethical or aggressive practices to collect debts, loans, or other payments.
    The loan shark demanded repayment with exorbitant interest rates.
  2. (n.) A person who exploits or preys on others, especially in business or legal contexts.
    The legal shark exploited loopholes to win cases unfairly.

Forms

  • sharks

Commentary

The term 'shark' in legal contexts often implies unethical behavior related to finance or legal exploitation; use cautiously and precisely.


Sharke

/ˈʃɑːrk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who engages in sharp or unethical business practices, especially one who preys on others financially by fraudulent or aggressive means.
    The loan shark charged exorbitant interest rates often considered illegal.

Commentary

The term often appears in contexts involving illegal or unethical lending practices; its use in legal writing typically relates to discussions of usury or financial fraud.


Sharp Force Trauma

/ˈʃɑrp fɔrs ˈtrɔmə/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Injury caused by a sharp-edged or pointed object, relevant in forensic and legal investigations to determine cause and manner of death or injury.
    The forensic expert testified that the victim's wounds were consistent with sharp force trauma.

Forms

  • sharp force trauma

Commentary

Sharp force trauma is a key term in forensic analysis, often requiring precise description of wound characteristics for legal proceedings.


Sheet

/ʃiːt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A single page or leaf of paper, often used for legal documents or forms.
    Please sign the attendance sheet before entering the courtroom.
  2. (n.) A printed or written document summarizing financial accounts or legal statements.
    The lawyer reviewed the balance sheet during the audit.

Forms

  • sheets

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'sheet' typically refers to individual pages or documents, often used in filing or evidentiary practices.


Sheet Music

/ˈʃiːt ˈmjuːzɪk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A written or printed form of musical notation indicating the pitches, rhythms, and chords to be performed, often protected under copyright law.
    The composer registered the sheet music to secure copyright protection.

Forms

  • sheet music

Commentary

In legal contexts, sheet music is considered a tangible fixation of a musical work and is subject to copyright protection distinct from the underlying composition.


Shelf Company

/ˈʃɛlf ˈkʌmpəni/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A pre-registered company that has had no business activity and is kept dormant until used for establishing business credibility or for contractual convenience.
    Investors often buy a shelf company to speed up the process of starting a new business.

Forms

  • shelf company
  • shelf companies

Commentary

Shelf companies are used to bypass the time-consuming registration process, but their dormant status requires due diligence to avoid legal risks.


Shell Company

/ˈʃɛl ˈkʌmpəni/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A corporation without active business operations or significant assets, often used to facilitate financial transactions or legal purposes.
    The investigators uncovered that the funds were routed through several shell companies to conceal their origin.
  2. (n.) A company created to hold assets or manage liabilities while appearing as a separate entity, sometimes for tax avoidance or to obscure ownership.
    Establishing a shell company allowed the investor to protect their identity during the acquisition.

Forms

  • shell companies

Commentary

Shell companies often raise legal and regulatory concerns due to their potential misuse in fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion, requiring precise definition in compliance and corporate law contexts.


Shelter

/ˈʃeltər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A place offering refuge or protection, especially for persons or property at risk.
    The disaster victims found shelter in the community center.
  2. (v.) To provide refuge or protection to a person, animal, or property.
    The agency shelters homeless individuals during extreme weather.
  3. (n.) A legal term referring to the protection or exemption from legal duties or liabilities.
    Certain transactions benefit from tax shelter provisions to reduce liability.

Forms

  • shelters
  • sheltering
  • sheltered

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'shelter' can refer both to physical protection and legal protections such as in 'tax shelter.' When drafting, clarify whether the term pertains to tangible refuge or legal exemption to avoid ambiguity.


Shelter Law

/ˈʃɛltər lɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal framework that governs the provision or access to shelter, often related to housing rights, emergency accommodation, and protection from eviction.
    The shelter law ensured that homeless individuals received temporary housing during winter.

Forms

  • shelter law
  • shelter laws

Commentary

Shelter laws are often state-specific and pertain to social welfare and housing security; drafting should consider local jurisdictional variations.


Sheriff

/ˈʃɛrɪf/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An elected or appointed law enforcement officer in a county, responsible for maintaining peace, executing court orders, and managing the county jail.
    The sheriff arrested the suspect and booked him into the county jail.
  2. (n.) A legal officer who serves writs and summonses, enforces court orders, and carries out executions of judgments.
    The sheriff served the eviction notice to the tenant as instructed by the court.

Forms

  • sheriffs

Commentary

In some jurisdictions, sheriffs have both law enforcement and judicial functions; drafting should specify the scope of duties to avoid ambiguity.


Sheriff's Office

/ˈʃɛrɪfs ˈɒfɪs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A governmental agency headed by a sheriff, responsible for law enforcement, maintaining the county jail, court security, and serving legal process within a county.
    The sheriff's office investigated the burglary and arrested the suspect.

Forms

  • sheriff's office
  • sheriff's offices

Commentary

The term 'sheriff's office' typically refers to the organizational structure under the sheriff, distinct from the individual officeholder; in statutes and legal documents, precision in referring to the office vs. the person is important.


Sheriff's Sale

/ˈʃɛrɪfs seɪl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A public auction of property repossessed to satisfy a court judgment or lien, conducted by a sheriff or other law enforcement officer.
    The debtor's house was sold at a sheriff's sale to satisfy the outstanding mortgage debt.

Forms

  • sheriff's sale

Commentary

Sheriff's sales typically follow judicial orders and involve property seized to enforce judgments; clarity about jurisdictional procedures is crucial when drafting related clauses.


Sherman Act

/ˈʃɜːrmən ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal antitrust statute enacted in 1890 prohibiting monopolistic business practices and restraints of trade.
    The Sherman Act is crucial in maintaining competitive markets by outlawing monopolies.

Forms

  • sherman act
  • sherman acts

Commentary

The Sherman Act is foundational in U.S. antitrust enforcement, often invoked alongside the Clayton Act and Federal Trade Commission Act for comprehensive competitive regulation.


Sherman Antitrust Act

/ˈʃɜrmən ˈæntraɪst ækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A U.S. federal statute enacted in 1890 to prohibit monopolistic business practices and promote fair competition by outlawing restraints of trade and attempts to monopolize markets.
    The Sherman Antitrust Act was used to break up monopolies in the early 20th century.

Forms

  • sherman antitrust act
  • sherman antitrust acts

Commentary

The Act is foundational in U.S. antitrust law and is frequently cited for cases involving anti-competitive conduct; terminology stresses its dual prohibition of both contracts restraining trade and monopolistic conduct.


Shield

/ʃiːld/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal protection or immunity provided by statute, doctrine, or agreement to prevent liability or prosecution.
    The defendant claimed diplomatic shield to avoid prosecution.
  2. (n.) A physical or figurative barrier used to guard persons or entities from harm or liability.
    The company used the corporate shield to limit shareholder liability.
  3. (v.) To protect or defend a person or entity from legal action or harm.
    The lawyer sought to shield her client from damaging testimony.

Forms

  • shields
  • shielded
  • shielding

Commentary

The term 'shield' often implies legally recognized protection, such as immunity or privilege, distinguishing it from ordinary forms of defense or protection.


Shield Law

/ˈʃiːld lɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A statute protecting certain confidential information from compelled disclosure in legal proceedings, commonly shielding journalists' sources.
    The reporter relied on the shield law to refuse revealing their source in court.

Forms

  • shield law
  • shield laws

Commentary

Shield laws vary significantly by jurisdiction; drafters should specify the scope of protection and exceptions explicitly.


Shift Differential

/ˈʃɪft ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Additional compensation paid to employees who work less desirable shifts such as nights or weekends.
    The company offers a shift differential to employees working the overnight shift.

Forms

  • shift differential
  • shift differentials

Commentary

Shift differentials are typically outlined in employment agreements or collective bargaining contracts and reflect market or operational needs to staff less attractive hours.


Shift Work

/ˈʃɪft wɜːrk/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A work schedule system where employees rotate through different shifts, often including night or evening hours, regulated to ensure employee rights and safety.
    The labor contract includes provisions to protect workers engaged in shift work from excessive fatigue.

Forms

  • shift work

Commentary

Shift work is frequently addressed in employment law and occupational health regulations due to its impact on worker well-being and legal compliance.


Shill

/ʃɪl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person who secretly promotes or supports a party, product, or cause, often in a deceptive or fraudulent manner, especially in auctions or gambling contexts.
    The auctioneer was exposed for using a shill to inflate the bidding prices.

Forms

  • shill
  • shills

Commentary

In legal contexts, a shill is often relevant to fraud and deceptive practices, especially under statutes regulating fair trade and auction conduct.


Ship

/ˈʃɪp/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A vessel legally recognized for maritime navigation and transport of goods or passengers.
    The ship was registered under the flag of Panama.
  2. (v.) To send or transport goods by means of a ship or other conveyance.
    The company ships all orders within 48 hours.

Forms

  • ships
  • shipping
  • shipped

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'ship' as a noun primarily refers to a vessel with legal status under maritime law, while as a verb it concerns the act of sending goods; ensure clarity by context to avoid ambiguity between the terms.


Ship Captain

/ˈʃɪp ˈkæptən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An individual legally recognized as the master of a vessel, responsible for its navigation, safety, and compliance with maritime law.
    The ship captain ensured all safety protocols were followed during the voyage.

Forms

  • ship captains

Commentary

The term denotes the legally empowered commanding officer of a ship, often interchangeable with 'master' in maritime legal contexts.


Ship Registration

/ˈʃɪp ˌrɛdʒɪˈstreɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The official recording of a ship under a nation's registry to establish nationality and grant legal rights and obligations.
    Ship registration is required for a vessel to engage in commercial activities under a country's flag.
  2. (n.) The process and documentation involved in enrolling a ship in the registry.
    The ship registration process includes submitting ownership and safety documentation.

Forms

  • ship registration
  • ship registrations

Commentary

Ship registration legally determines a vessel's nationality and is vital for jurisdictional and regulatory purposes; accuracy in defining ownership and compliance with registry requirements is crucial.


Ship Registration Certificate

/ˈʃɪp ˌrɛdʒɪˈstreɪʃən səˈtɪfɪkət/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official document issued by a governmental authority certifying that a ship is registered under a specific flag state, affirming its nationality and legal status.
    The captain presented the ship registration certificate to customs officials upon docking.
  2. (n.) Proof of a ship’s eligibility to engage in maritime commerce under a nation’s laws, enabling it to receive protection and comply with regulations.
    Without a valid ship registration certificate, the vessel could be detained by port authorities.

Forms

  • ship registration certificate
  • ship registration certificates

Commentary

Often critical in disputes over vessel ownership and jurisdiction, the certificate must be carefully checked for authenticity and current validity.


Ship Registry

/ˈʃɪp ˈrɛdʒɪstri/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A government-maintained record of ships registered under its flag, detailing ownership, nationality, and vessel particulars for legal and regulatory purposes.
    The ship registry confirmed the vessel’s compliance with international safety standards.

Forms

  • ship registry
  • ship registries

Commentary

Ship registries serve a critical legal function in establishing a ship’s nationality and ensuring compliance with applicable maritime laws.


Ship’s Log

/ˈʃɪps lɔɡ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An official record maintained aboard a ship documenting daily activities, navigational data, incidents, and communications, used as legal evidence in maritime law.
    The ship’s log was submitted as evidence in the maritime accident investigation.

Forms

  • ship’s logs

Commentary

Accurate and timely entries in the ship’s log are crucial for legal liability and compliance in marine operations.


Shipbuilding

/ˈʃɪpˌbɪldɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The industry or process involved in the construction, design, and repair of ships, regulated under maritime and admiralty law.
    The contract for the shipbuilding project included specific compliance with international maritime safety standards.

Commentary

Legal attention in shipbuilding frequently focuses on contractual obligations, compliance with maritime safety regulations, and liability issues related to vessel construction.


Shipmaster

/ˈʃɪpˌmæstər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The legally recognized captain or master of a ship, responsible for the vessel and its navigation, crew, and cargo.
    The shipmaster is liable for ensuring compliance with maritime safety regulations.

Commentary

The term 'shipmaster' is predominantly used in maritime law to denote the person with ultimate authority on a ship; often interchangeable with 'master' but may appear with formal responsibilities in legal contexts.


Shipment

/ˈʃɪpmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act or process of transporting goods from one place to another, especially under a contract of carriage.
    The shipment of goods must comply with the terms of the sales contract.
  2. (n.) The quantity of goods transported together as one consignment.
    The shipment consisted of 500 units of electronics.

Forms

  • shipments

Commentary

In legal drafting, distinguish between the act of shipment and the goods shipped; the term often affects risk transfer and contract obligations.


Shipment Agreement

/ˈʃɪpmənt əˌɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally binding contract between a seller and a carrier or buyer outlining terms for the transportation of goods.
    The shipment agreement specifies the delivery dates and liability for lost cargo.

Forms

  • shipment agreement
  • shipment agreements

Commentary

Shipment agreements often include clauses on risk transfer, delivery terms, and insurance obligations, critical for logistics and commercial transactions.


Shipment Contract

/ˈʃɪpmənt ˈkɒntrækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A contract in which the seller fulfills delivery obligations by handing goods over to a carrier for transmission to the buyer.
    Under the shipment contract, the risk passes to the buyer once the seller hands the goods to the shipper.

Forms

  • shipment contract
  • shipment contracts

Commentary

In shipment contracts, delivery to the carrier suffices to complete seller's duties, distinct from destination contracts where delivery at a specific place is required.


Shipment Documentation

/ˈʃɪpmənt ˌdɒkjʊmɛnˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal and commercial documents required to accompany goods during transportation, evidencing ownership, description, and terms of delivery.
    The shipment documentation must be verified before customs clearance.

Forms

  • shipment documentation
  • shipment documentation (singular noun)

Commentary

Shipment documentation is critical for proving possession and compliance with shipping regulations; clarity and accuracy in drafting prevent disputes during the transport process.


Shipment Regulation

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal framework outlining requirements, restrictions, and procedures for the transport of goods to ensure compliance with safety, customs, and international trade laws.
    The shipment regulation mandates proper documentation and packaging standards to prevent delays at the border.

Forms

  • shipment regulation
  • shipment regulations

Commentary

Shipment regulations often intersect with customs and international trade laws, requiring precise language to cover multiple jurisdictions and modes of transport.


Shipp

/ˈʃɪp/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A historical legal term referring to a parcel of land held by a freeholder in medieval England.
    The tenant held a shipp in the manor under the feudal system.

Commentary

This archaic term chiefly appears in historical property law contexts and is rarely used in modern legal practice.


Shippe

/ˈʃɪp/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A vessel used for transporting goods or passengers by water, recognized under maritime law.
    The shippe was delayed due to stormy weather.

Forms

  • ships
  • shipping

Commentary

The spelling 'shippe' is an archaic form of 'ship' commonly found in historical legal documents.


Shipper

/ˈʃɪpər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A person or entity who delivers goods to a carrier for transportation under a contract of carriage.
    The shipper is responsible for packaging the goods in compliance with the carrier's requirements.

Forms

  • shippers

Commentary

In contracts and transportation law, the shipper is distinct from the carrier and consignee; precise identification avoids liability confusion.


Shipping Charges

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ ˈʧɑrdʒɪz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Fees imposed by a carrier or seller for the transportation and delivery of goods.
    The contract requires the buyer to pay all shipping charges upfront.

Forms

  • shipping charge

Commentary

Shipping charges often appear in contracts and sales agreements; clarity on who bears these costs avoids disputes.


Shipping Contract

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ ˈkɒntrækt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally binding agreement between parties for the transportation of goods by sea, air, land, or other means, specifying terms such as delivery, payment, and liabilities.
    The shipping contract outlined the carrier's responsibilities and liability limits.

Forms

  • shipping contracts

Commentary

Commonly involves specific terms about risk, liability, and delivery timelines; precise drafting is critical to clarify parties' obligations and limit disputes.


Shipping Documentation

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ ˌdɒkjʊmenˈteɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The collection of documents required for the transport and delivery of goods, including bills of lading, invoices, and customs paperwork.
    The shipping documentation must be complete to avoid delays in customs clearance.

Forms

  • shipping documentation

Commentary

Shipping documentation is critical in establishing legal rights and obligations during the transport of goods; accuracy and completeness are essential to avoid disputes and ensure compliance with customs and commercial laws.


Shipping Documents

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ ˈdɒkjʊmənts/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Documents required to facilitate, verify, and regulate the transportation and delivery of goods, including bills of lading, packing lists, and invoices.
    The exporter provided all necessary shipping documents to ensure the cargo cleared customs without delay.

Forms

  • shipping documents
  • shipping document

Commentary

Shipping documents serve as key evidence in transactions and disputes involving goods transport; precise drafting reduces cross-border shipping risks.


Shipping Insurance

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ ɪnˈʃʊərəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A contract or policy that protects against financial loss or damage to goods during transport by sea, air, or land.
    The company purchased shipping insurance to cover potential damages during transit.

Forms

  • shipping insurance

Commentary

Shipping insurance typically involves specific terms related to transport and risk allocation; clear drafting should specify covered perils and claims process.


Shipping Law

/ˈʃɪpɪŋ lɔː/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The body of law governing the shipment of goods, maritime transport, and related commercial activities.
    Shipping law regulates contracts of carriage by sea and the rights of cargo owners.

Commentary

Shipping law is often used interchangeably with maritime law but primarily focuses on commercial shipping and carriage contracts rather than all maritime issues.


Shop

/ʃɒp/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A place of business where goods or services are sold or provided.
    The law regulates safety standards in a retail shop.
  2. (v.) To visit a shop or multiple shops to buy goods.
    Consumers have the right to shop without unfair discrimination.

Forms

  • shops
  • shopping
  • shopped

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'shop' often pertains to the regulation of commercial premises and consumer rights; distinctions between 'shop' and 'store' can vary by jurisdiction.


Shop Steward

/ˈʃɒp ˌstjuːərd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An employee elected or appointed by a labor union to represent and assist union members within a workplace.
    The shop steward negotiated with management over working conditions on behalf of the union members.

Forms

  • shop steward
  • shop stewards

Commentary

Typically, a shop steward acts as a liaison between the union members and the employer, playing a crucial role in enforcing labor agreements and handling workplace disputes.


Shoplift

/ˈʃɒpˌlɪft/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To steal goods from a retail establishment without paying.
    The suspect was caught trying to shoplift several items from the store.

Forms

  • shoplifts
  • shoplifted
  • shoplifting

Commentary

Shoplifting is a specific form of theft with unique prosecutorial considerations in retail settings.


Shopped

/ʃɒpt/

Definitions

  1. (v. (past tense)) Past tense of shop, generally meaning to have purchased goods or investigated options, without a distinct legal meaning.
    She shopped around for the best insurance policy before signing.

Commentary

'Shopped' is primarily a past tense verb form without a specialized legal definition; see 'shop' for any substantive usage.


Shopping

/ˈʃɒpɪŋ/

Definitions

  1. (n.) The act or process of purchasing goods or services, often governed by contract and consumer protection laws.
    The consumer filed a complaint regarding unfair charges during her shopping experience.

Commentary

In legal contexts, 'shopping' often relates to consumer protection and contract formation issues rather than the casual act of buying.


Short Form

/ˈʃɔrt fɔrm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An abbreviated or condensed version of a legal document or form, used to streamline procedural or administrative processes.
    The parties executed a short form agreement to expedite the transaction.

Forms

  • short forms

Commentary

Short forms are often used to reduce complexity and save time, but care must be taken to ensure that key legal terms and obligations are not omitted.


Short-Term

/ˈʃɔrtˌtɜrm/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Relating to or lasting for a brief period as defined within the terms of a contract or legal arrangement.
    The parties agreed to a short-term lease of six months.
  2. (adj.) Pertaining to consequences, rights, or obligations that arise or expire within a limited timeframe, often contrasted with long-term.
    The short-term liabilities must be settled within the fiscal year.

Commentary

Typically used adjectivally to specify durations or conditions limited by time; often contrasted with 'long-term' in contracts and finance.


Short-Term Disability Insurance

/ˌʃɔrt tɜrm dɪsəˈbɪləti ɪnˈʃʊrəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A type of insurance providing wage replacement benefits for employees temporarily unable to work due to non-work-related illness or injury.
    The employee filed a claim under his short-term disability insurance after surgery.

Forms

  • short-term disability insurance

Commentary

Short-term disability insurance typically covers a limited period and differs from workers' compensation, which covers work-related injuries.


Short-Term Investment

/ˌʃɔrtˌtɜrm ɪnˈvɛstmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) An asset purchased with the expectation of conversion to cash within a short period, typically less than one year, often constituting securities or other liquid financial instruments.
    The company's short-term investments were recorded on the balance sheet as current assets.

Forms

  • short-term investment
  • short-term investments

Commentary

Short-term investments are characterized by liquidity and are distinguished from long-term investments by their intent and holding period, a key consideration in financial disclosure and accounting.


Shorthand

/ˈʃɔːrthænd/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A method of rapid writing using symbols or abbreviations for legal transcription.
    The court reporter used shorthand to take down every word spoken in the trial.

Forms

  • shorthands

Commentary

In legal contexts, shorthand is primarily associated with court reporting and deposition transcription, where accuracy and speed are essential.


Should

/ʃʊd/

Definitions

  1. (modal v.) Expresses duty, obligation, or advisability, often non-binding and subject to interpretation in contracts and statutes.
    The tenant should pay rent on the first day of each month.
  2. (modal v.) Indicates a conditional event or consequence in legal contexts.
    If the defendant should fail to appear, the court may issue a warrant.

Forms

  • should

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'should' conveys recommended or expected behavior but lacks the binding force of 'shall' or 'must'.


Show

/ʃoʊ/

Definitions

  1. (v.) To present or introduce evidence, documents, or exhibits in a legal proceeding.
    The lawyer will show the contract to support her argument.
  2. (n.) An exhibition or demonstration, often in a legal context, such as a 'show cause' hearing.
    The court scheduled a show to determine if the injunction should remain.

Forms

  • shows
  • showed
  • showing

Commentary

In legal drafting, 'show' often relates to evidence presentation; careful distinction between verb and noun uses helps clarify procedural references.


Show Cause

/ˈʃoʊ kɔːz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A court order compelling a party to appear and explain or justify why a certain action should not be taken or a judgment entered.
    The judge issued a show cause order requiring the defendant to respond by next week.
  2. (v.) To present reasons or evidence to justify or explain an action, typically in response to a court's show cause order.
    The company was required to show cause why its license should not be revoked.

Forms

  • shows cause
  • showed cause
  • showing cause

Commentary

Use 'show cause' orders to require parties to explain or justify conduct before a court takes action; drafting should clearly specify the issue to be addressed.


Show Trial

/ˈʃoʊ ˌtraɪəl/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A judicial proceeding conducted primarily for propaganda, often with a predetermined verdict.
    The dictator orchestrated a show trial to eliminate political opponents and sway public opinion.

Forms

  • show trial
  • show trials

Commentary

Show trials are typically marked by absent or minimal procedural fairness, serving political or propagandistic functions rather than genuine justice.


Shown

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Served as evidence or exhibited to prove or disprove a fact in a legal proceeding.
    The document shown to the court was accepted as valid evidence.
  2. (v.) Past participle of show; to have presented or exhibited something for inspection or consideration.
    She has shown the contract to her attorney for review.

Commentary

"Shown" is primarily the past participle form of "show," used to indicate presentation or exhibition, especially in evidentiary contexts.


Shrinkwrap Agreement

/ˈʃrɪŋkˌræp əˈɡriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A software licensing contract whose terms are enclosed within the packaging and become binding upon opening the package.
    The shrinkwrap agreement became enforceable as soon as the user opened the software box.

Forms

  • shrinkwrap agreement
  • shrinkwrap agreements

Commentary

Shrinkwrap agreements raise unique enforceability issues as acceptance is often implied by usage or opening packaging rather than explicit signature.


Shrinkwrap License

/ˈʃrɪŋkræp ˈlaɪsəns/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A software license whose terms are enclosed within the product's packaging and accepted by the user upon opening that packaging.
    The shrinkwrap license prohibited the user from redistributing the software.

Forms

  • shrinkwrap license
  • shrinkwrap licenses

Commentary

Shrinkwrap licenses raise enforceability issues because assent is implied by opening the package rather than explicit agreement.

Glossary – SH Terms