A metaphorical expression, signifying the conscience, discretion, or recollection of the judge. During the term of a court, the record is said to remain "in the breast of the judges of the court and in their remembrance." Co. Litt 260a; 3 Bl. Comm. 407. … [Read more...]

In military law. A commission by which an officer is promoted to the next higher rank, but without conferring a right to a corresponding increase of Pay. In French law. A privilege or warrant granted by the government to a private person, authorizing him to take a special benefit or exercise an exclusive privilege. Thus a brevet d'invention is a patent for an invention. … [Read more...]

The term used when a legal claim arises after one party fails to perform or violates a provision of a binding contractual agreement. For example, when a photographer for a wedding who was paid a deposit and under contract for services fails to show at the wedding to take photographs. … [Read more...]

med. juris. The air expelled from the chest at each expiration. 2. Breathing, though a usual sign of life, is not conclusive that a child was wholly born alive, as breathing may take place before the whole delivery of the mother is complete. Law Dictionary - Alternative Legal Definition In medical jurisprudence. The air expelled from the lungs at each expiration. … [Read more...]

Latin: Writs. The plural of breve, which see. Brevia adversaria. Adversary writs; writs brought by an adversary to recover land. 6 Coke, 67. Brevia amicabilia. Amicable or friendly writs; writs brought by agreement or consent of the parties. Brevia anticipan tia. At common law. Anticipating or preventive writs. Six were included in this category, viz.: Writ of mesne; voarrantia … [Read more...]