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Dictionary of Law Terms: Code

Code. A collection or system of laws, as the Code Napoleon. Codicil. A supplement to a will.

Cognovit Actionem. An instrument by which a defendant (usually upon terms) acknowledges the plaintiff's cause, and suffers judgment to be entered against him without trial.

Collateral Descent. That which descends from a side branch of a family; as from an uncle or a nephew.

Commission. The warrant, or letters-patent, authorizing any inquiry, judicial or otherwise; as the commission of the judges, the commission of the peace, etc. Commitment. The sending a person who has been guilty of any crime to prison, by warrant or order.