Test Case

/ˈtɛst keɪs/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A set of facts or conditions under which a legal rule or principle is examined for validity or application.
    The court considered a test case to clarify the new regulation's scope.
  2. (n.) A judicial proceeding chosen to resolve a significant legal question to set precedent.
    They brought a test case to challenge the constitutionality of the statute.

Forms

  • test cases

Commentary

In legal usage, a test case helps establish or clarify the interpretation of law; it is distinct from ordinary cases due to its strategic or precedent-setting nature.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

Draft confidently with Amicus

Create, negotiate, and sign agreements in one secure workspace—invite collaborators, track revisions, and keep audit-ready records automatically.

Open the Amicus app