One that pilfers other men's goods; a thief. … [Read more...]

In English law. A contract by which A. lends B. £1,000 on good security, and it is agreed that £500, together with interest, shall be paid at a time stated; and, as to the other £500, that B., in consideration thereof, shall pay to A. £100 per annum for seven years. Wharton. … [Read more...]

domest. relat. He who is born from the same father and mother with another, or from one of them only. 2. Brothers are of the whole blood, when they are born of the same father and mother, and of the half blood, when they are the issue of one of them only. 3. In the civil law, when they are the children of the same father and mother, they are called brothers germain; when they … [Read more...]

Typically referring to the violation of or failure to meet a legal obligation. Usually referring to contracts (see breach of contract) where a legal obligation under contract has failed to have been met by one of the parties, for example, a payment requirement. Law Dictionary - Alternative Legal Definition The breaking or violating of a law, right, or duty, either by commission … [Read more...]

The act of forcibly removing the fastenings of a house, so that a person may enter. 2. It is a maxim that every man's house is his castle, and it is protected from every unlawful invasion. An officer having a lawful process, of a criminal nature, authorizing him to do so, may break an outer door, if upon making a demand of admittance it is refused. The house may also be broken … [Read more...]