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Simple English definitions for legal terms
action at law
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A quick definition of action at law:
An action at law is a legal proceeding where one person sues another person to protect their rights or get compensation for a wrong that was done to them. It can be a civil or criminal case. In simple terms, it's like going to court to ask a judge to make a decision about something that someone did wrong to you.A more thorough explanation:
Action at law refers to a civil or criminal judicial proceeding. It is a legal process by which one party prosecutes another party for the enforcement or protection of a right, the redress or prevention of a wrong, or the punishment of a public offense. It seeks only a legal remedy, such as monetary damages, and not equitable relief like an injunction or specific performance.
Examples of action at law include:
- A lawsuit filed by a person who was injured in a car accident to recover compensation for their medical expenses and lost wages.
- A criminal trial in which the state prosecutes a defendant for a crime, such as theft or assault.
- A breach of contract lawsuit filed by a business against a vendor who failed to deliver goods as promised.
These examples illustrate how action at law is a legal process that seeks a remedy through the court system. It is different from a suit in equity, which seeks equitable relief like an injunction or specific performance.