Legal Definitions - alias

An alias refers to an alternative name used by an individual, different from their official legal name. This alternative name can be a pseudonym, a nickname, or any other designation by which a person is known or chooses to be identified.

In a specific legal context, the term "alias" can also be used after a placeholder name (like "John Doe" or "Jane Doe") to indicate that the true identity of the person is unknown at that time.

• Example 1 (Professional Pseudonym): A novelist whose birth name is Robert Miller might publish all of their best-selling books under the pen name 'R.M. Sterling.' In this scenario, 'R.M. Sterling' is Robert Miller's alias, the alternative name he uses for his professional literary work.

  Explanation: This illustrates an alias as a chosen alternative name for professional purposes, distinct from the individual's legal name.

• Example 2 (Criminal Identification): Law enforcement agencies might issue a warrant for a suspect identified as "Maria Rodriguez, alias 'Shadow,' alias 'M.R. Smith.'" This indicates that the person legally named Maria Rodriguez is also known to use the names 'Shadow' and 'M.R. Smith' to conceal her identity or operate under different guises.

  Explanation: Here, the aliases are alternative names used by an individual, often to evade detection or create multiple identities, which is important for authorities to track.

• Example 3 (Unknown Party in Legal Proceedings): In a civil lawsuit where the plaintiff knows a vehicle was involved in an accident but cannot identify the driver, the initial court filing might name "Defendant Jane Doe, alias." This phrasing is used when the actual name of the defendant is unknown, and 'Jane Doe' serves as a temporary placeholder until their true identity can be discovered.

  Explanation: This demonstrates the specific legal usage of "alias" following a placeholder name to signify that the individual's real identity is currently unconfirmed or unknown to the court.