Legal Definitions - nominatim

Nominatim is a Latin term meaning "by name." In a legal context, it refers to the act of explicitly identifying someone or something by their specific name or a precise description, leaving no room for doubt about their identity or the object in question.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of nominatim:

• Example 1: Contractual Specification

  Imagine a software development contract that states, "The client specifically requires the integration of the 'Apex Analytics Pro' API for data processing."

  This demonstrates nominatim because the contract doesn't just say "integrate an analytics API"; it explicitly names "Apex Analytics Pro." This specificity ensures that the developer cannot substitute a different analytics tool without breaching the contract, as the exact component was identified by name.

• Example 2: Testamentary Bequest

  In a last will and testament, a clause reads, "I bequeath my vintage 1965 Ford Mustang, VIN 5F07T7XXXXXXX, to my nephew, David Miller."

  Here, both the specific item and the beneficiary are identified nominatim. The car is described by its make, model, year, and unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), leaving no doubt about which specific vehicle is intended. Similarly, "David Miller" explicitly names the individual who will receive the car, preventing any confusion with other relatives or individuals.

• Example 3: Corporate Board Resolution

  A company's board of directors passes a resolution stating, "Effective immediately, Ms. Sarah Chen is hereby removed from her position as Vice President of Marketing."

  This resolution applies nominatim by explicitly naming "Ms. Sarah Chen." This direct identification leaves no ambiguity about which specific individual is being removed from the Vice President of Marketing role, ensuring the action is clear and legally precise.