Legal Definitions - imprimis

The term imprimis is a Latin phrase meaning "in the first place" or "first and foremost." It is used to introduce the initial, most important, or primary point in a discussion, document, or list of considerations.

• Example 1: In a formal legal will, a testator (the person making the will) might begin by stating, "Imprimis, I direct that all my outstanding debts and funeral expenses be paid promptly."

  Explanation: This usage indicates that the payment of debts and funeral expenses is the absolute first priority and must be handled before any other distributions or bequests outlined in the will.

• Example 2: During a critical business negotiation, a company's lead attorney might open their remarks by saying, "Imprimis, we must ensure that any agreement protects our intellectual property rights above all else."

  Explanation: Here, "imprimis" emphasizes that safeguarding intellectual property is the paramount concern and the foundational condition for any further discussion or agreement.

• Example 3: A judge, when delivering a complex ruling with multiple components, might begin by stating, "Imprimis, the court finds that the plaintiff has established a clear breach of contract."

  Explanation: By using "imprimis," the judge signals that the finding of a breach of contract is the primary and most significant conclusion, upon which subsequent parts of the ruling will depend or elaborate.