D

government. The Act of April 80, 1798, 1 Story's Laws, 498, establishes an executive department, under the denomination of the department of the navy, the chief officer of which shall be called the secretary of the navy. 2. A principal clerk, and such other clerks as he shall think necessary, shall be appointed by the secretary of the navy, who shall be employed in such manner … [Read more...] about DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

In practice. Pending or undetermined; in progress. See 5 Coke, 47. … [Read more...] about DEPENDING

(A) pleading. Said to be when a party quits or departs from the case, or defence, which he has first made, and has recourse to another; it is when his replication or rejoinder contains matter not pursuant to the declaration, or plea, and which does not support and fortify it. Co. Litt. 304, a; 2 Saund. 84, a, n. (1); 2 Wils. 98; 1 Chit. Pl. 619. The following example will … [Read more...] about DEPARTURE

In Spanish-American law. Spaces of ground in towns reserved for commons or public pasturage. 12 Pet. 443, note, 9 L. Ed. 115a … [Read more...] about DEPESAS

In old English practice. The tenant in a real action, having once appeared, was considered as constructively present in court until again called upon. Hence if, upon being demanded, he failed to appear, he was said to have "departed in despite [i.e., contempt] of the court" … [Read more...] about DEPARTURE IN DESPITE OF COURT