Ipsissima Verba: The Importance of Quoting Authority in Law

Definition & meaning

Ipsissima verba is a Latin phrase that translates to "the very words." In legal contexts, it refers to the practice of quoting the exact words of an established authority, such as a judge or legal expert. This term is often used when attorneys or judges cite specific language from previous rulings or legal documents to support their arguments or decisions. The use of ipsissima verba underscores the importance of precision in legal writing and the reliance on authoritative sources.

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Legal Use & Context

In legal practice, ipsissima verba is commonly used in various areas, including:

  • Civil Law: Attorneys may quote previous case law to strengthen their arguments.
  • Criminal Law: Judges often reference specific statutes or prior rulings when making decisions.
  • Family Law: Legal documents may include exact phrases from established authorities to clarify points.

Users can manage related legal processes by utilizing templates from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.

Key Legal Elements

Real-World Examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An attorney cites a previous court ruling where the judge stated, "The defendant acted within their rights," to argue a similar case.

Example 2: A judge refers to the ipsissima verba of a statute when determining the legality of an action taken by a party in a family law dispute.

Comparison with Related Terms

Term Definition Difference
Verbatim Word-for-word reproduction of text. Verbatim does not require authority; ipsissima verba does.
Quoting Citing someone else's words. Quoting can be paraphrased; ipsissima verba must be exact.

Common Misunderstandings

What to Do If This Term Applies to You

If you find that ipsissima verba applies to your situation, consider the following steps:

  • Gather relevant legal documents or precedents that support your case.
  • Consult with a legal professional for tailored advice.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you draft necessary documents.

Quick Facts

  • Definition: The exact words of an authority.
  • Usage: Common in legal arguments and rulings.
  • Importance: Ensures precision and authority in legal writing.

Key Takeaways

FAQs

It means "the very words" and refers to quoting exact phrases from an authority.

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