Legal Definitions - AB

The term "AB" has two distinct meanings in a legal or professional context:

AB (Able-Bodied Seaman)

AB is an abbreviation for an Able-Bodied Seaman. This refers to a qualified member of a ship's crew who is experienced in general seamanship duties. An AB typically holds a certificate of competency, indicating they have met specific training and sea-time requirements to perform various tasks on deck, such as watchkeeping, cargo handling, maintenance, and emergency procedures.

• Example 1: A large container ship preparing for an international voyage needed to ensure its crew met regulatory standards. The captain reviewed the manifest and confirmed they had the required number of ABs to safely operate the vessel's deck machinery and perform lookout duties during the journey.

  Explanation: This illustrates "AB" as a specific crew qualification, essential for meeting maritime safety regulations and operational requirements on a commercial vessel.

• Example 2: During a port state control inspection, an inspector asked to see the certifications of the deck crew. The ship's first mate presented the documents for several crew members, including their AB certificates, demonstrating their competency in general seamanship.

  Explanation: Here, the "AB" certificate serves as official proof of a seaman's qualifications, which is verified by authorities to ensure compliance with international maritime conventions.

• Example 3: A maritime training academy offered advanced courses for ordinary seamen looking to upgrade their skills and obtain an AB certificate. Completing this certification would allow them to take on greater responsibilities and earn higher wages on commercial ships.

  Explanation: This example highlights "AB" as a recognized professional qualification that marks a significant career progression for a seaman, indicating a higher level of skill and experience.

ab (Latin Preposition)

The term "ab" is a Latin preposition meaning from, by, or of. It is frequently found in legal terminology as part of Latin phrases that describe the origin, source, or starting point of a legal action, status, or concept.

• Example 1: A court declared a contract void ab initio because it was based on fraudulent misrepresentations from the very beginning.

  Explanation: In this phrase, ab initio literally means "from the beginning," indicating that the contract was invalid from its inception, not just from a later point.

• Example 2: The judge ruled that certain evidence was inadmissible because it was obtained ab extra, meaning it came from an external source not properly introduced through the established legal process.

  Explanation: Here, ab extra translates to "from outside," signifying that the evidence originated externally and was not part of the legitimate proceedings.

• Example 3: When a person dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed ab intestato, according to the laws of intestacy.

  Explanation: The phrase ab intestato means "from an intestate person," indicating that the inheritance process proceeds because the deceased did not leave a will.