VIS MAJOR

a superior force. In law it signifies inevitable accident. 2. This term is used in the civil law in nearly the same way that the words act of God, are used in the common law. Generally, no one is responsible for an accident which arises from the vis major; but a man may be so where he has stipulated that he would; and when he has been guilty of a fraud or deceit. … [Read more...] about VIS MAJOR

Immediate force; original force. This phrase is applied to cases of trespass when a question arises whether an injury has been caused by a direct force, or one which is indirect. When the original force, or vis impressa, had ceased to act before the injury commenced, then there is no force, the effect is mediate, and the proper remedy is trespass on the case. 2. When the injury … [Read more...] about VIS IMPRESSA

Latin: Any kind of force, violence, or disturbance relating to a man's person or his property. Vis ablativa. In the civil law. Ablative force; force which is exerted in taking away a thing from another. Calvin. Vis arniata. In the civil and old English law. Armed force ; force exerted by means of arms or weapons. Vis clandestina. In old English law. Clandestine force; such as … [Read more...] about VIS

Latin: By virtue of his office. A sheriff, a constable, and some other officers may, virtute officii, apprehend a man who has been guilty of a crime in their presence. … [Read more...] about VIRTUTE OFFICII

(Latin) By virtue whereof. This was the clause In a pleading justifying an entry upon land, by which the party alleged that it was In virtue of an order from one entitled that he entered. Wharton. … [Read more...] about VIRTUTE CUJUS