Legal Definitions - hoc titulo

Hoc titulo is a historical Latin legal phrase that translates to "under this title" or "under this heading." It was used to refer to a specific section, chapter, or designated part within a legal document, statute, or body of law. Essentially, it directs attention to a particular category or subject matter as it is formally labeled or organized.

Here are some examples to illustrate its meaning:

• Example 1 (Referring to a Statute):

  Imagine a lawyer arguing a case about environmental regulations. They might state, "The defendant's actions are clearly in violation of the standards established hoc titulo of the state's Clean Water Act regarding industrial discharge."

  Explanation: In this scenario, "hoc titulo" refers to a specific section or chapter within the Clean Water Act that is formally titled or headed "industrial discharge" (or a similar designation). The lawyer is asserting that the violation falls under that particular legal category or section of the law.

• Example 2 (Referring to a Contract):

  Consider a detailed commercial lease agreement. A clause might specify, "All maintenance responsibilities for the leased premises shall be as outlined hoc titulo 'Tenant Obligations' within this agreement."

  Explanation: Here, "hoc titulo" directs the reader to a specific, formally titled section within the same lease agreement, likely labeled "Tenant Obligations," which contains all the detailed rules and agreements regarding the tenant's maintenance duties.

• Example 3 (Referring to a Legal Treatise or Academic Work):

  A legal scholar writing an analysis of property law might write, "The concept of adverse possession, as thoroughly examined hoc titulo 'Acquisition of Land by Prescription' in Blackstone's Commentaries, provides a historical foundation for modern property rights."

  Explanation: In this context, "hoc titulo" points to a specific chapter or major section within Blackstone's Commentaries that is formally titled "Acquisition of Land by Prescription." The scholar is referencing the discussion found under that particular heading in the classic legal text.