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On or Before: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning
Definition & Meaning
The phrase "on or before" is commonly used in legal documents, such as contracts and promissory notes. It indicates that a specific action, such as making a payment or submitting an application, must occur by a designated date. This means that the action can be completed on that date or any time prior to it. For instance, if a notice states that applications must be submitted on or before May 10, 2011, it means that submissions are acceptable up to and including that date.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
This term is frequently encountered in various legal contexts, including:
Contracts: Specifying deadlines for obligations.
Real estate transactions: Outlining dates for offers or inspections.
Loan agreements: Indicating payment due dates.
Users can manage these obligations effectively by utilizing legal templates available through 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: A job application states that applications must be submitted on or before April 15, 2023. This means applicants can submit their materials anytime up to and including April 15.
Example 2: A lease agreement specifies that rent must be paid on or before the first of each month. Tenants can pay their rent any day before or on that date. (hypothetical example)
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Notes
California
Commonly used in real estate contracts.
New York
Often appears in financial agreements.
Texas
Used in both civil and commercial contracts.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
On or After
Indicates that an action can occur on or after a specified date.
Less restrictive than "on or before," allowing actions to start after the date.
By
Means the action must be completed by the end of the specified date.
Similar to "on or before," but does not explicitly allow for actions on the date itself.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you encounter the term "on or before" in a legal document, ensure you understand the deadline for your obligations. Take the following steps:
Mark the specified date on your calendar.
Complete any required actions, such as submitting applications or making payments, by that date.
Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates that can help you meet your obligations effectively.
If your situation is complex or unclear, consult a legal professional for guidance.
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