Legal Definitions - A.M.

A.M. stands for Ante Meridiem.

This Latin phrase translates to "before midday" and is used to designate the period of time from midnight (12:00 A.M.) up to, but not including, noon (12:00 P.M.). It specifies the morning hours.

• Example 1: Court Scheduling

  A judge schedules a critical motion hearing for 10:00 A.M. next Tuesday.

  Explanation: This indicates that the hearing will commence at ten o'clock in the morning, before noon, on the specified Tuesday. All parties involved are expected to be present at that time.

• Example 2: Filing Deadlines

  A legal brief must be submitted to the court clerk's office by 11:30 A.M. on Friday to be considered timely for the upcoming docket.

  Explanation: This sets a precise deadline, requiring the document to be filed no later than eleven-thirty in the morning on Friday. Any submission after this time would be considered late.

• Example 3: Client Appointments

  A law firm sends a confirmation for a new client consultation, stating, "Your appointment with Attorney Smith is confirmed for 9:00 A.M. on October 26th."

  Explanation: This clearly communicates that the meeting will take place at nine o'clock in the morning, prior to midday, on the given date, ensuring the client arrives at the correct time.