wex definitions

ad hoc

This phrases mean “for this purpose only.” Its literal translation from the Latin is “to this.”

Common examples are an ad hoc committee or an ad hoc commission created for a specific or one-time purpose to address issues that fall outside...

ad litem

The Latin translation of ad litem is "for the suit."

Examples:

A guardian ad litem is a guardian (usually a lawyer) appointed by the court to manage the affairs of the ward as they relate to a proceeding or particular...

ad seriatim

Ad seriatim is a Latin word meaning one after another or in a series.

For example, a judge delivering an opinion one by one or a court dealing with multiple issues in a certain order.

[Last updated in June of 2022...

Ad valorem translated directly from Latin, means "according to [the] value [of something].” In practical use, the term is used in taxation to designate taxes levied against property, real or personal, at a certain rate based upon the property...

ad valorem tax

Ad valorem is a Latin phrase that translates to “according to the value.”

The essential characteristic of ad valorem tax is that it is proportional to the value of the underlying asset, unlike a specific tax, where the tax...

ADA

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush. The ADA is also falls under the...

addendum

An addendum is an addition to a finished document, such as a contract. The most common addendum is an attachment or exhibit at the end of such a document. For example, a contract to manufacture widgets may have an addendum listing the...

additur

Additur is a process whereby a judge increases the amount of damages awarded by a jury. This can occur if the judge finds the jury’s award to be insufficient based on the evidence presented during the trial. Additur is typically offered as an...

ADEA

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) was issued in 1967 and signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson and prohibits discrimination on the basis of age. While the Act permits certain age distinctions, it prohibits...

adeem

Adeem means to revoke or withdraw a bequest because the bequeathed assets no longer belong to the testator at the time of their death. This occurs when the property that was the subject of a specific bequest is sold, destroyed, given away, or...