The Law Dictionary for Everyone
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) is an agreement between two parties that is not legally binding, but which outlines the responsibilities of each of the parties to the agreement. An MOU is often the first step toward creating a legally binding contract. In the U.S., an MOU can be considered identical to a letter of intent, which is another kind […]
Read morePalimony refers to alimony-like support payments that are made by one unmarried partner to another upon splitting up after having previously lived together. The term “palimony” was actually made famous by the case involving actor Lee Marvin and his long-term partner. Palimony may be paid in monthly payments or as one lump-sum settlement, depending on what the parties to the […]
Read moreA notarized letter is a letter that has been certified by a notary public. A notary public is someone who is authorized to certify certain legal documents, such as deeds or contracts. A notarized letter is certified when a notary public adds his stamp or seal to the document, ensuring that the signature on the letter is authentic. To explore […]
Read moreInternational law is a collection of laws that are accepted as governing the relations between states. There are three types of international law: public international law, private international law, and supranational law. There are also two branches of international law: jus gentium and jus inter gentes. To explore this concept, consider the following international law definition. Definition of International Law […]
Read moreImprisonment is the act of taking away someone’s freedom, though this does not always mean that the person is physically locked up in a jail cell. Imprisonment can be carried out for any reason, whether it’s with the permission of the government, or by a person who acts without any authority. If the latter is true, then the imprisonment is […]
Read moreIndebtedness is the state of being in debt, or owing money to someone else. When someone is in debt, it means that he has borrowed money, or received goods or services, with a promise to pay the sum back. Someone can be in debt for bills that are due now, as well as bills that he knows will be due […]
Read moreThe term lawful interception refers to surveillance of communications between people by law enforcement agencies. This type of surveillance includes communications by phone, email, and other electronic means, and can only be legally undertaken with a court order. To explore this concept, consider the following lawful interception definition. Definition of Lawful Interception Noun Legally sanctioned access to private communications. What […]
Read moreThe term impunity refers to an exemption from punishment, or avoidance of penalties, in a situation which clearly calls for punishment. This might apply to someone who ultimately is not punished for wrongdoing, because the state failed in its duty to investigate and prosecute the crime. It might also apply to someone who sets himself above the law, acting with […]
Read moreThe franking privilege, enacted in 1775, allows members of Congress to mail their letters without postage. In lieu of a stamp, members instead use a stamp consisting of their signatures. Congress, at a later time, and through the legislative branch, then reimburses the U.S. Postal Service for their franked mail. To explore this concept, consider the following franking privilege definition. […]
Read moreThe term “flagrant misconduct” is used to describe behavior that is extremely, obviously, and/or purposefully improper. Examples of flagrant misconduct include a store employee taking photos of customers as they change in the dressing room, or an employee who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs while operating a company vehicle. Both of these acts are illegal, and outrageous. […]
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