Legal Definitions - AL

The term AL is not an acronym. It is a historical legal abbreviation derived from Law French, where it functioned as a preposition meaning "at." This term was commonly found in older legal documents and reports, reflecting the significant historical influence of French on English legal language and procedures.

Here are some examples illustrating its use:

• Example 1: "AL pais"

  Imagine a historical legal case where a jury was summoned. The records might state that the jury was drawn "AL pais."

  Explanation: In this context, "AL pais" translates to "at the country" or "from the locality." It emphasized that the jury members were local residents, presumed to be familiar with the customs and facts of the region where the dispute arose. Here, "AL" clearly means "at" or "from," indicating the origin or location of the jury.

• Example 2: "AL bar"

  Consider an attorney in a historical courtroom making a formal presentation or argument. This action would be described as occurring "AL bar."

  Explanation: When an attorney presents arguments or makes a motion "AL bar," it means they are doing so "at the bar" of the court. The "bar" refers to the physical barrier in a courtroom separating the public area from the area reserved for judges, lawyers, and court officers. This phrase signifies that the action is taking place formally before the court. In this instance, "AL" directly means "at," indicating the location of the legal action.

• Example 3: "AL terme"

  Suppose an old legal document refers to a specific court hearing or proceeding that took place during a particular period. It might state the case was heard "AL terme."

  Explanation: Older legal systems organized their judicial year into specific "terms" or sessions during which courts sat to hear cases. Referring to a case being heard "AL terme" meant "at the term" or "during the court session." This phrase indicated that a particular legal event or proceeding was scheduled for or occurred during one of these designated court sittings. Here, "AL" functions as "at," specifying the time period or session when the legal action took place.