Legal Terms Beginning with Q
Quaere
Latin for query as in an issue on which some doubt or question exists. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Qualified Privilege
A defence in defamation actions that defeats the claim when that defamation issues from specified occasions. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quantum
Latin: amount or extent. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quantum meruit
Latin for as much as is deserved. This is a legal principle under which a person should not be obliged to pay, nor should another be allowed to receive, more than the value of the goods or services exchanged. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quash
To set aside. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quasi-judicial
Refers to decisions made by administrative tribunals or government officials to which the rules of natural justice apply. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Queen's Counsel
An archaic designation of a barrister, phased out in most jurisdiction, indicating of its title holder faithfulness to the Crown, but more recently, contribution to the profession of lawyers. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quid pro quo
Latin: something for something. The giving of something in exchange for another thing of equal value. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Qui facit per alium facit per se
He who acts through another, acts himself. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quorum
The number of people who must be present at a meeting before business can be conducted. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quo warranto
Latin and referring to a special legal procedure taken to stop a person or organization from doing something for which it may not have the legal authority, by demanding to know by what right they exercise the controversial authority. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
Quia Emptores
A 1290 English statute that held that notwithstanding the subdivision (subinfeudation) of a feeholding; the new tenant owed feudal rights and obligations not to the seller but to the Land Lord. - (see expanded definition at duhaime.org)
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