L. Fr. Literally, out of the hand. 1. A delivery of lands out of the king's hands by judgment given in favor of the petitioner in a monstrous de droit. 2. A delivery of the ward's lands out of the hands of the guardian, on the former arriving at the proper age, which was twenty-one in males, and sixteen in females. Abolished by 12 Car. II. c. 24. Mozley A Whitley. … [Read more...]

L. Fr. Beyond the sea; a cause of excuse if a person, being summoned, did not appear in court Cowell. … [Read more...]

Lat. Gates of the kingdom. The ports of the kingdom of England are so called by Sir Matthew Hale. De Jure Mar. pt 2, c. 3. … [Read more...]

He who has no legal statue in court is said to be "out of court," i.e., he is not before the court. Thus, when the plaintiff in an action, by some act of omission or commission, shows that he is unable to maintain his action, he is frequently said to put himself "out of court." Brown. The phrase is also used with reference to agreements and transactions in regard to a pending … [Read more...]

Lat. In old English law. The door or porch of the church, where dower was anciently conferred. … [Read more...]