Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: IN BANC
Definition: In banc means that all judges are present and participating in a court case. It is also known as en banc, which is a French term that means "on the bench." This type of hearing is held in full court and is used for important cases that require the input of all judges.
Definition: In banc, also spelled en banc or in bank, is a legal term that refers to a hearing or decision made by all judges of a court, rather than a smaller panel of judges.
Example: The Supreme Court of the United States may hear cases in banc when a particularly important or controversial issue arises. For example, in 1973, the Supreme Court heard the case of Roe v. Wade in banc, meaning all nine justices participated in the decision.
Explanation: The example illustrates how in banc is used to describe a hearing or decision made by all judges of a court. In the case of Roe v. Wade, all nine justices of the Supreme Court participated in the decision, rather than just a smaller panel of judges. This is an example of an in banc hearing.