What is a Letter Missive? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A letter missive is a formal communication, typically from a king or authority figure, directed to a governing body, such as the dean and chapter of a cathedral. This letter usually includes the name of a candidate whom the king wishes to be elected as bishop. Additionally, in legal contexts, a letter missive can refer to a request sent to a defendant to appear in court and respond to a lawsuit. Under civil law, it also denotes the appellate record that a lower court sends to a higher court, which is sometimes referred to as a letter dismissory.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(hypothetical example) A king sends a letter missive to the cathedral's governing body, recommending a candidate for bishop. The governing body then holds an election based on this recommendation.

(hypothetical example) After a lawsuit is filed against a defendant, the court issues a letter missive requesting the defendant to appear in court to respond to the allegations.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Letter Missive A formal letter from an authority regarding appointments or court appearances. Specifically involves authority figures and formal requests.
Letter Dismissory A document that dismisses a case or appeal. Focuses on case dismissal rather than appointment or appearance requests.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you receive a letter missive, it is important to understand its implications. If it pertains to a court appearance, respond promptly and prepare your case. For appointments related to ecclesiastical matters, follow the procedures outlined in the letter. Users can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help in drafting responses or preparing necessary documents. If the situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal assistance.

Quick facts

  • Type: Formal communication
  • Used in: Ecclesiastical and civil law
  • Purpose: Appointments and court appearances

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It serves as a formal request for appointments or court appearances.