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Dictionary of Law Terms

Abandonment. The relinquishing to the underwriters, under an insurance, of all the property saved from a wreck, in order to entitle the insured to claim for a total loss. Abate. To break down, destroy, or remove; as, for instance, to abate (remove or put an end to) a nuisance. Also when applied to debts and legacies which abate proportionately on insufficiency of assets.

Abduction. The unlawful taking or detention of a woman against her will, with the intention of procuring her marriage or defilement. Also the unlawful taking of a child or of an unmarried girl, under the age of sixteen years, out of the possession, and against the will, of her father, or other person having the lawful care of her, although done without force or corrupt motives.

Abettor. A person who encourages or excites another to commit an offence punishable by law.

Abeyance. The fee simple of lands is an abeyance when there is no person in being in whom it can vest, so that it is in a state of expectancy or waiting until a proper person shall appear, or the right thereto is determined. The same applies to dignities or offices.

Abjuration (oath of). An oath disclaiming any right in the Pretender to the British throne, and also the jurisdiction and authority of the pope or any other foreign prince within this realm.

Abstract of Title. An epitome of the deeds and documents constituting the evidence or title to an estate.

Accessory. A person concerned in a felonious offence, although not the actual perpetrator, nor present at its performance. He may be accessory either before or after the fact.

Acknowledgment by a Married Woman. A ceremony gone through by a married woman to enable her to convey her interest in land, which has been substituted for the old process of a fine.

Action. The method of demanding the enforcement of a man's right and securing redress for a civil injury, is the term applied now to all proceedings in the Supreme Court.

Acts of Bankruptcy are numerous such as keeping out of the way to avoid a creditor, etc.

Addition. The title, degree, profession, or business, and also the place of abode of a person.