An ancient writ to summon four lawful knights before the justices of assize, there to choose twelve others, with themselves to constitute the grand assise or great jury, to try the matter of right. The trial by grand assize was instituted by Henry II. in parliament, as an alternative to the duel in a writ of right Abolished by 3 & 4 Wm. IV. c. 27. Wharton. … [Read more...] about MAGNA ASSISA ELIGENDA
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MACHINATION
Contriving a plot or conspiracy. The act of planning or contriving a scheme for executing some purpose, particularly an evil purpose; an artful design formed with deliberation. … [Read more...] about MACHINATION
MAFIA
Organized crime. A group of criminals who use violence, extortion and threats in order to carry on a criminal enterprise through the wrongful influence of businesses, politicians and others. … [Read more...] about MAFIA
MAGNA AVERIA
In old pleading. Great beasts, as horses, oxen, etc. Cro. Jac. 580. … [Read more...] about MAGNA AVERIA
MACHINE
In patent law. Any contrivance used to' regulate or augment force or motion; more properly, a complex structure, consisting of a combination, or peculiar modification, of the mechanical powers. The term "machine," in patent law, includes every mechanical device, or combination of mechanical powers and devices, to perform some function and produce a certain effect or result. But … [Read more...] about MACHINE