Legal Term Dictionary

Search our free database of thousands of legal terms. The easiest-to-read, most user-friendly guide to legal terms.This dictionary is from the early 20th century and is not to be construed as legal advice.

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  • DEAD LETTERS
    Letters which the postal department has not been able to deliver to the persons for whom they were intended. They are sent to the "dead-letter office," where they are opened, and returned to the writer if his address can be ascertained.
  • DEAD MAN'S PART
    In English law. That portion of the effects of a deceased person which, by the custom of London and York, is allowed to the administrator; being, where the deceased leaves a widow and children, one-third; where he leaves only a widow or only children, one-half; and, where he leaves neither, More...
  • DEAD-PLEDGE
    A mortgage; mortuum vadium.
  • DEAD RENT
    In English law. A rent payable on a mining lease in addition to a royalty, so called because it is i my able although the mine may not be worked.
  • DEAD USE
    A future use.
  • DEADHEAD
    This term is applied to persons other than the officers, agents, or employes of a railroad company who are permitted by the company to travel on the road without paying any fare therefor. Gardner v. Hall, 61 N. C. 21.
  • DEADLY FEUD
    In old European law. A profession of irreconcilable hatred till a person is revenged even by the death of his enemy,
  • DEADLY WEAPON
    Such weapons or instruments as are made and designed for offensive or defensive purposes, or for the destruction of life or the infliction of injury. Com. v. Branhain, 8 Bush (Ky.) 387. A deadly weapon is one likely to produce death or great bodily harm. People v. Fuqua, 58 Cal. More...
  • DEAD'S PART
    In Scotch law. The part remaining over beyond the shares secured to the widow and children by law. Of this the testator had the unqualified disposal. Bell.
  • DEAF AND DUMB
    A man that is born deaf, dumb, and blind is looked upon by the law as in the same state with an idiot he being supposed Incapable of any understanding. 1 Bl. Comm. 304. Nevertheless, a deaf and dumb person may be tried for felony if the prisoner can be More...
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