L. Fr. Whose estate. A term used in pleading, particularly in claiming prescription, by which it is alleged that the plaintiff and those former owners whose estate he has have immemorially exercised the right claimed. This was called "prescribing in a que estate." … [Read more...]
QUESTION OF LAW
A question as to law is answered by a judge, not the jury. For example, a question as to how the law should be applied, whether testimony given in court is inadmissible hearsay. … [Read more...]
QUEAN
A worthless woman a strumpet. The meaning of this word, which is now seldom used, is said not to be well ascertained. … [Read more...]
QUESTMAN, OR QUESTMONGER
In old English law. A starter of lawsuits, or prosecutions; also a person chosen to inquire Into abuses, especially such as relate to weights and measures; also a church-warden. … [Read more...]
QUEEN
A woman who possesses the sovereignty and royal power in a country under a monarchical form of government The wife of a king. Queen consort. In English law. The wife of a reigning king. 1 Bl. Comm. 218. Queen dowager. In English law. The widow of a king. 1 Bl. Comm. 223. Queen-gold. A royal revenue belonging to every queen consort during her marriage with the king, and due from … [Read more...]