Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Dedimus potestatum
Definition: Dedimus potestatem is a fancy way of saying that someone has been given special power by a court. In America, this means that someone has been given the authority to question a witness. In England, it can mean that someone has given their lawyer the power to make decisions for them.
Definition: Dedimus potestatem is a legal term that refers to a special authority granted to an individual by a court or a client. It means that the person has been given the power to perform a specific legal action.
In American law, the term is commonly used to refer to the authority given to someone to depose a witness. This means that the person has the power to ask questions and obtain testimony from a witness under oath.
For example, if a lawyer wants to gather evidence for a case, they may request a dedimus potestatem from the court to depose a witness. This allows them to ask the witness questions and obtain a sworn statement that can be used as evidence in court.
In English law, the term can have a broader meaning. It can refer to a client granting decision-making authority to their attorney. This means that the attorney has the power to make decisions on behalf of the client, such as settling a case or signing a contract.
For example, if a client is unable to attend a legal proceeding, they may grant a dedimus potestatem to their attorney to make decisions on their behalf. This allows the attorney to act as the client's representative and make decisions that are in their best interest.