“At law” is a legal term that is commonly used in the legal system. It is a phrase that is often used to describe the legal status or position of a person or entity. Understanding the meaning of “at law” is important for anyone who is involved in the legal system, whether as a lawyer, judge, or litigant.
Definitions
The term “at law” is often used to describe a legal matter that is being dealt with in a court of law. It refers to a situation where a legal dispute is being resolved through the legal process, rather than through other means such as mediation or arbitration.
Another definition of “at law” is that it refers to a person who has the legal capacity to sue or be sued. This means that the person has the legal standing to bring a legal action or to defend themselves against a legal action.
Origin
The phrase “at law” has its origins in the English legal system. It was used to distinguish between legal actions that were being dealt with in a court of law and those that were being dealt with in other legal forums, such as the ecclesiastical courts.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, “at law” means “in accordance with the law: legally”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “in a legal sense; by or in virtue of the law”.
Associations
The phrase “at law” is often associated with the legal system and legal proceedings. It is used to describe the legal status of a person or entity, and is often used in legal documents and court filings.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “at law” include “legally”, “by law”, “in accordance with the law”, and “under the law”.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of “at law” include “out of court”, “out of the legal system”, and “outside of legal proceedings”.
The same root words
The phrase “at law” does not have any root words, as it is a phrase that has its own distinct meaning.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “at law”:
- The plaintiff has standing to bring this action at law.
- The defendant is being sued at law for breach of contract.
- The dispute will be resolved through legal proceedings at law.
- The court has jurisdiction to hear this matter at law.
- The parties have agreed to settle the dispute out of court, rather than through legal proceedings at law.