Legal Definitions - at bar

The term at bar refers to the specific legal case, matter, or question that is currently before a court for consideration or decision. It signifies that the court's attention is focused on this particular issue at the present moment.

• Example 1: Civil Dispute

  During a hearing about a contract dispute between two companies, the judge might state, "Based on the arguments and evidence presented in the breach of contract claimat bar, I will issue my ruling next week."

  Explanation: In this scenario, "the breach of contract claim at bar" specifically identifies the particular contract dispute that the judge is actively hearing and preparing to decide, distinguishing it from any other cases or legal principles.

• Example 2: Criminal Proceedings

  In a criminal trial for theft, the defense attorney might argue, "The prosecution has failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in the case at bar."

  Explanation: Here, "the case at bar" refers directly to the specific theft trial currently underway, highlighting that the attorney's argument pertains to the evidence (or lack thereof) presented within that particular proceeding.

• Example 3: Legal Motion

  A lawyer might write in a legal brief, "The legal precedent established in Smith v. Jones is directly relevant to the jurisdictional question raised by the motion at bar."

  Explanation: "The motion at bar" indicates the specific legal request or question (e.g., a motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction) that the court is currently reviewing and on which it needs to make a decision.