Legal Concepts
Common Law
A body of law developed through judicial decisions and case law. Judges interpret and apply evolving principles.
Statutory Law
Law created by legislative bodies. These are formal rules enacted by Parliament or other governing authorities.
Precedent
A judicial decision that serves as an authoritative rule for future cases. When existing law does not address an issue, judges may establish new principles that guide later decisions.
Tort
A civil wrong that causes harm or loss and creates legal liability for the responsible person.
Equity
A branch of law developed alongside common law to provide remedies unavailable at law. Equity focuses on fairness and includes remedies such as injunctions and specific performance.
Legal Procedures
Litigation
The process of bringing a case before a court.
Trial
A formal hearing in which a tribunal examines evidence and determines the facts of a civil or criminal case.
Appeal
A request to a higher court to review a lower court's decision.
Cross Examination
Questioning of a witness by the opposing party during trial.
Discovery
The process through which parties obtain information from each other before trial.
Habeas Corpus
A legal action requiring a court to review the detention of a person. It is initiated through a writ petition.
Legal Terms and Phrases
Actus Reus
The physical act that constitutes a criminal offence.
Mens Rea
The mental intention or knowledge required to commit a crime.
Ultra Vires
An action taken beyond legal authority.
Obiter Dictum
A judge's remark made in passing. It is not binding.
Prima Facie
A fact or case that appears correct at first impression until proven otherwise.
Per Incuriam
A decision made without regard to relevant law or precedent.
Locus Standi
The right of a party to appear and be heard before a court.
Legal Latin Terms
Pro Bono
Professional work undertaken for the public good, usually without charge.
Ipso Facto
"By the fact itself." Indicates that an outcome flows directly from an action.
Ultra Vires / Intra Vires
Ultra vires refers to actions taken without legal authority. Intra vires refers to actions within legal power.
In Camera
A hearing conducted privately, excluding the press and public.
Final Thoughts
Students will encounter countless legal terms, from principles and procedures to ethics and professional conduct. Learning a few concepts each day can make the transition into law school far less overwhelming.
Legal dictionaries, online courses and free platforms such as Alison, edX and Class Central offer accessible ways to build familiarity with legal language. Starting early can open doors to new opportunities and help students feel prepared from the moment they enter the classroom.
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