A document delivered to a minister, by the secretary of state of the government to which he was accredited. It is addressed to the executive of the minister's country. This is in reply to the letter of recall. … [Read more...]

Lat. A writ of execution directing the sheriff to cause to be made of the lands and chattels of the judgment debtor the sum recovered by the judgment Pentland v. Kelly, 6 Watts & S. (Pa.) 484. Also a writ to the bishop of the diocese, commanding him to enter into the benefice of a judgment debtor, and take and sequester the same into his possession, and hold the same until … [Read more...]

The strict, plain meaning interpretation of a law, statute or ordinance. … [Read more...]

Lat. An expression used in the Roman law, and applied to the trial of wreck and salvage. Commentators disagree about the origin of the expression; but all agree that its general meaning is that these causes shall be heard summarily. The most probable solution is that it refers to the place where causes were heard. A sail was spread before the door and officers employed to keep … [Read more...]

An official letter from the IRS or official tax agency which is a formal decision on a tax question and may be used to interpret how to deal with a certain type of tax situation, similar to case law or a judicial decision that acts as predecent. Letter rulings are usually published for the public's benefit. … [Read more...]