Legal Jargon for CLAT 2026: Simple Explanations for Key Terms

Actionable per se

Wrong in itself

An act that is considered a legal wrong on its own. The person affected can sue without needing to prove any harm or damage caused.

Ab Initio

From the beginning

Something that is considered effective or valid right from the start.

Ante Litem Motam

Before a dispute or controversy arises

Refers to actions or statements before any legal case is filed

Actio personalis moritur cum persona

A person's right to take action dies with the person

Certain personal legal rights cease with the death of the individual

Actus reus

A guilty act

The physical action or conduct that is part of a crime, distinct from the mental intention of the accused.

Ad hoc

For the particular end or case at hand.

Refers to something done for a specific purpose or situation

Actori incumbit onus probandi

The burden of proof is on the plaintiff

In a legal proceeding, it is the duty of the individual who is filing the case to produce evidence and demonstrate their claim

Amicus Curiae

A friend of the court

An individual or organisation not directly having any relation to a case, but invited to assist the court by offering expertise or advice

Bona fide

In good faith

Acting or behaving sincerely without any ill intention

Bona vacantia

Ownerless goods

Means unclaimed property without any rightful owner

Caveat actor

Let the doer beware

A caution that the individual taking action or initiating a legal process is responsible for the risks and consequences involved

De facto

In fact

Refers to a situation that exists in reality, even if it is not legally recognised or formally established

De jure

By law

Something that is approved or established by law

Damnum sine injuria

Damage without legal injury

Indicates a situation where damage or loss occurs to a person, but no legal right is violated, so there is no legal remedy

De minimis

About minimal things

Hints to issues so small or insignificant that the law does not take notice

Ex gratia

As a favour

A payment or benefit, or action given voluntarily out of goodwill, without any legal obligation to provide it.

Quid pro quo

Something for something

Refers to a mutual exchange where one benefit or favour, or consideration is given in return for another.

Ipso facto

By mere fact itself

Result or consequence that follows automatically from a particular fact or action

In promptu

In readiness

Being prepared for something

In status quo

In the current state or condition

Maintaining the present situation or existing circumstances without any change.