Latin for Lawyers

L ATIN FOR L AWYERS

LIBEL PER SE A statement is libellous per se if the words used are so clearly defamatory that injury to an individual can be presumed as a matter of law. In the case of libel per se , the plaintiff need not prove damage to his person or property. The words used are so obviously harmful to his reputation that injury or damage to him is presumed. LIBER [L. liber / free, independent, without restraint] Free; at liberty. The root for the words liberal and liberty . LIBERATE [L. libero, liberare / to set free, liberate] To set free. To release from restraint or custody. To remove from control or dominion, as of one country or people by another. LIBER ET LEGALIS HOMO A free and lawful man. See HOMO LIBER LIBERTAS OMNIBUS REBUS FAVORABILIOR EST Liberty is favored above all other things. LIBERTY [L. liber / free; libertas / freedom] Freedom from restraint or control by others in the pursuit of one's lawful activities. Enjoyment equally with all others of the rights and privileges accorded to a democratic society, free from all governmental restraints except those required for the safety and welfare of its citizens. Freedom from physi cal or mental restraint. Possessing all the rights guaranteed to American citi zens under the U.S. Constitution, especially as expressed in the Bill of Rights and Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments. LICENSE [L. licet, licere / it is allowed or permitted] A special right not enjoyed by everyone, usually after application to and approval by some governmental body, as a driver’s license, a marriage license, a liquor license. Other examples: a license to practice law or medi cine. Also, authorization by a person or business having a proprietary right, such as a patent or trademark, to another, permitting the use of that right in commerce. LICENTIOUS [L. licentia / excessive freedom; the abuse of freedom, unre trained] Excessive and arbitrary use of one's rights and privileges; ignoring the rights of others. Disregarding sexual and moral restraints. Uninhibited. Lewd; las civious.

221