(A) A species of lien created by statute in most of the states which exists in favor of persons who have performed work or furnished material in and for the erection of a building. Their lien attaches to the land as well as the building and is intended to secure for them a priority of payment. The lien of a mechanic is created by law and is intended to be a security for the … [Read more...]

An established principle or proposition. A principle of law universally admitted, as being a correct statement of the law, or as agreeable to natural reason. Coke defines a maxim to be "conclusion of reason," and says that it is so called "quia maxima ejus dignitas et certissima auctori tas, et quod maxime omnibus procetur." Co. Litt. 11a. He says in another place: "A maxime is … [Read more...]

Ground somewhat watery, not plowed, but covered with grass and flowers. Enc. Lond. … [Read more...]

Having relation to, or mechanism or machinery. Used chiefly in patent law. See compound terms infra. Mechanical equivalent. A device which may be substituted or adopted, instead of another, by any person skilled in the particular art from his knowledge of the art, and which is competent to perform the same functions or produce the same result, without introducing an original … [Read more...]

Latin, meaning The people are the greatest master of error. … [Read more...]