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Dictionary of Law Terms: Issue

I. O. U. A written acknowledgment of a debt. The instrument is regarded in a court of law as evidence of an account stated. It is not a promissory note. Issue. The disputed point or question to which the parties in an action have by pleadings narrowed their several allegations, and are hence said to Join Issue. If it be an issue of fact, it is tried by a jury; if of law, by the court-Issue is also the legal term for children or remoter descendants.

Jactitation of Marriage. Where one party boasts or falsely declares that he or she is married to another, whereby a common reputation of their marriage may ensue.

Joinder in Action. The coupling or joining two parties in one suit or action. Joint-Tenants. Persons who hold land, etc., jointly by one title. On the death of one the survivor takes the whole.

Jointure. A settlement of lands or tenements on a woman, to take effect after her husband's death in lieu of dower.

Judgment. The sentence of the law pronounced by the court upon the matter contained in the record. Jurat. The clause written at the foot of an affidavit, stating when, where, and before whom, it was sworn.

Jurist. A civil lawyer.