Legal Definitions - at law

The phrase at law refers to something that is based on, recognized by, or enforced through the established legal system, its statutes, and precedents. It signifies an action, right, or remedy that is firmly rooted in the formal legal framework, as opposed to principles of fairness or equity that might be applied in different circumstances.

• Example 1: Contractual Damages

  If two companies have a written contract for the supply of goods, and one company fails to deliver as agreed, the other company might seek monetary compensation for its losses. This claim for financial reimbursement is a remedy sought at law. The court would apply established contract law principles to determine if a breach occurred and calculate the appropriate damages based on legal rules, rather than simply deciding what seems "fair" in a general sense.

• Example 2: Legal Title to Property

  When someone purchases a house and the deed is properly recorded, they hold legal ownership of that property. This means they own the house at law. Their ownership is formally recognized and protected by property statutes and land registration systems, giving them specific legal rights to possess, use, and transfer the property, which can be enforced through the courts.

• Example 3: Debt Collection Lawsuit

  A bank that is owed money by a borrower who has defaulted on a loan might file a lawsuit to recover the outstanding debt. The bank's right to repayment and its ability to sue for that money are established at law, based on the loan agreement and commercial law statutes. The court would apply these specific legal rules to determine if the debt is valid and enforceable, and if so, issue a judgment for the bank.