In Spanish law. The institution and prosecution of a suit from its commencemeqt until definitive judgment The first instance, "primera instancia," is the prosecution of the Buit before the judge competent to take cognizance of it at its inception; the second instance, "secunda itstancia," is the exercise of the same action before the court of appellate jurisdiction; and the … [Read more...]

(A) comm. law. The examination of certain articles made by law subject to such examination, so that they may be declared fit for commerce. The decision of the inspectors is not final; the object of the law is to protect the community from fraud, and to preserve the character of the merchandise abroad. (B) practice. Examination. 2. The inspection of all public records is free to … [Read more...]

An indivisible space of time. 2. Although it cannot be actually divided, yet by intendment of law, it may be applied to several purposes; for example, he who lays violent hands upon himself, commits no felony till he is dead, and when he is dead he is not in being so as to be termed a felon; but he is so adjudged in law, eo instante, at the very instant this fact is done. … [Read more...]

The name given to certain officers whose duties are to examine and inspect things over which they have jurisdiction; as, inspector of bark , one who is by law authorized to examine bark for exportation, and to approve or disapprove of its quality. Inspectors of customs are officers appointed by the general government: as to their duties … [Read more...]

The case at bar, the case being discussed. … [Read more...]