Nunquam Indebitatus: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

Nunquam indebitatus is a legal term that translates to "never indebted." It refers to a specific type of plea used in legal actions involving indebitatus assumpsit, where the defendant asserts that they have never owed any debt to the plaintiff. This plea serves as a denial of the plaintiff's claim, indicating that the defendant does not acknowledge any obligation to pay.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A contractor sues a homeowner for unpaid services. The homeowner files a plea of nunquam indebitatus, claiming they never agreed to the payment terms.

Example 2: A business owner is sued for a loan they allegedly did not repay. The owner asserts nunquam indebitatus, stating they never borrowed the money. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Variation
California Allows for more comprehensive defenses in contract disputes.
New York Requires specific documentation to support a nunquam indebitatus plea.
Texas Has unique rules regarding the burden of proof in debt-related cases.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Non assumpsit A plea denying the existence of a contract. More comprehensive; can include evidence of payment or release.
Assumpsit A legal term for a promise or agreement. Focuses on the existence of a contract rather than denying debt.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation involving a claim of debt, consider filing a plea of nunquam indebitatus if you believe you are not liable. It may be beneficial to consult legal professionals for guidance. Additionally, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you navigate the process effectively.

Quick facts

  • Type: Civil law term
  • Use: Plea in debt-related cases
  • Evidence: Does not allow for evidence of payment

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means "never indebted" and is a plea denying any debt owed to the plaintiff.