a fortiori
A fortiori refers to an argument based on an even stronger previous argument. In Latin, the term literally means ‘from [the] stronger.’
The argument implies that if the first is true, the second is even more likely to be true.
A fortiori refers to an argument based on an even stronger previous argument. In Latin, the term literally means ‘from [the] stronger.’
The argument implies that if the first is true, the second is even more likely to be true.
A posteriori is used to describe knowledge gained from experience or actual observation. It is a Latin phrase that means "from what is later.” This is generally used to mean after the facts.
For example, someone would have a posteriori knowledge that it is snowing after physically going outside to check the weather.
A priori refers to an assertion based on prior knowledge or intuition. In Latin, the term literally means “from what is earlier.” An a priori determination is formed before investigation. For example, assuming that the road will be wet when it stops raining a minute before would be a priori reasoning.
A priori is the opposite of a posteriori, or after-the-fact knowledge.
A.K.A. is the abbreviation of “also known as.” It is often used to specify a party’s aliases or nicknames in a case.
[Last reviewed in November of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]
Ab initio is a Latin term that means "from the beginning” or “from inception.” Ab initio is used to indicate that some fact existed from the start of a relevant time period. It is often used as part of the phrase “void ab initio,” meaning something – such as a marriage – was void from the beginning.
ABA is an abbreviation for American Bar Association (ABA).
[Last reviewed in June of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]
Acknowledgment refers to a formal declaration before an official that one has executed a particular legal document. Some common usages of the term “acknowledgment” in a legal sense include:
The Latin translation of ad litem is "for the suit."
Examples:
Ad seriatim refers to following a specific order or sequence. It is a Latin word meaning “one after another or in a series.”
For example, an attorney might work on projects ad seriatim by completing them in the order in which they were assigned or by their deadlines.
[Last reviewed in December of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]
Admission to the practice of law (admission to the bar of a state) is governed by rules and regulations promulgated solely by a state's courts, legislatures, and/or bar association.