Legal Definitions - eo nomine

Eo nomine is a Latin phrase meaning "by or in that name." In legal contexts, it is used to specify that something is being referred to or categorized precisely as it is named or described, without broader interpretation or inclusion of similar but distinct items. It emphasizes exact identification and limits the scope to the specific term used.

• Example 1: Estate Planning

  Imagine a will that states, "I bequeath my antique grandfather clock to my nephew, John Smith." If the will specifies that the clock goes to "John Smith eo nomine," it means the inheritance is strictly for the individual precisely identified as John Smith. This prevents potential confusion or claims from other relatives who might also be nephews or have similar names, ensuring the asset goes to the specific person the testator intended.

• Example 2: Contractual Agreements

  Consider a business contract for services where a company agrees to pay for "website design and development." If the contract clarifies that payment is for "website design and development eo nomine," it means the payment covers only those specific services. It would not automatically include other related but distinct services, such as ongoing website maintenance, search engine optimization (SEO), or content creation, unless those were explicitly listed elsewhere in the agreement. The phrase limits the obligation to the exact services named.

• Example 3: Statutory Interpretation

  Suppose a new city ordinance imposes a special tax on "commercial parking garages." If the ordinance applies to "commercial parking garages eo nomine," it means the tax is levied only on properties that are specifically classified and operated as commercial parking garages. It would not extend to other types of parking facilities, such as private residential garages, employee parking lots, or even mixed-use buildings with a small parking component, unless those were explicitly included in the definition of "commercial parking garages" within the ordinance itself. The phrase ensures the tax applies precisely to the named category.