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...]

A settlement made between the parties outside of the courtroom and not in the presence of the judge. Usually the product of negotiations between the parties and their attorneys to come to a final settlement of a matter. … [Read more...]