Legal Definitions - CO.

The abbreviation CO. typically stands for one of two common terms: Company or County.

Meaning 1: Company

When CO. refers to Company, it is used to denote a business organization, often one that is incorporated or operates as a distinct legal entity. It frequently appears in the official names of businesses.

• Example 1: A small manufacturing business might be officially registered as "Precision Parts Co." to indicate its legal structure and identity.
  • Explanation: Here, "Co." is used as an abbreviation for "Company" within the formal name of the business, signifying it as a distinct commercial enterprise.
• Example 2: When reviewing a contract, a clause might state, "The terms herein apply to all subsidiaries of Global Innovations Co."
  • Explanation: In this context, "Co." clearly stands for "Company," referring to Global Innovations as the primary corporate entity whose subsidiaries are bound by the contract.

Meaning 2: County

When CO. refers to County, it designates a geographical and administrative subdivision within a state or larger territory. Counties often have their own local government functions, such as maintaining public records, administering elections, or operating local courts.

• Example 1: A property deed might specify that a piece of land is located in "Franklin Co., State of Ohio."
  • Explanation: In this instance, "Co." abbreviates "County," identifying Franklin County as the specific administrative region where the property is situated for legal and governmental purposes.
• Example 2: A local government notice might instruct residents to direct inquiries about property taxes to the "Tax Assessor's Office, Green Valley Co."
  • Explanation: Here, "Co." stands for "County," indicating that the Tax Assessor's Office is a department of the Green Valley County government, responsible for local tax administration.