Legal Definitions - post

In a legal context, the term post can have several distinct meanings, generally referring to placing something in a prominent position, sending something through the mail, recording a financial transaction, providing security, or indicating something that occurs after another event.

• To display or affix a notice publicly: This refers to the act of placing an official notice or document in a visible and accessible location, often as a legal requirement.

  • Example 1: A city government might post public hearing notices on a bulletin board outside the municipal building, informing residents about upcoming zoning changes.
  • Explanation 1: Here, "post" means to prominently display the notices so that the public is aware of the scheduled hearings.
  • Example 2: A construction company is legally required to post safety warnings and emergency contact information at a job site.
  • Explanation 2: In this scenario, "post" means to visibly affix the required safety information for all workers and visitors to see.

• To send something via mail or a postal service: This usage refers to the act of dispatching documents or correspondence through a recognized mail system.

  • Example 1: A lawyer might post a certified letter to an opposing party, formally notifying them of a legal action.
  • Explanation 1: "Post" in this context means to send the letter through the postal service.
  • Example 2: A government agency could post tax refund checks to eligible citizens.
  • Explanation 2: This refers to the act of mailing the checks to the recipients.

• To record a financial transaction or entry: This meaning relates to the act of formally entering a payment, deposit, or other financial activity into an account or ledger on a specific date.

  • Example 1: When a customer makes a deposit, the bank will post that amount to their savings account, reflecting the updated balance.
  • Explanation 1: Here, "post" means to officially record the deposit in the customer's account records.
  • Example 2: An accounting department will post all incoming payments from clients to the company's accounts receivable ledger.
  • Explanation 2: This illustrates "post" as the action of formally logging the payments into the financial records.

• To provide security, typically for release from custody: This refers to the act of depositing money or a bond with a court to ensure an arrested person will appear for future court dates.

  • Example 1: After an arrest, a family member might post cash bail to secure the temporary release of the accused individual.
  • Explanation 1: "Post" here means to provide the required amount of money to the court as a guarantee for the person's appearance.
  • Example 2: A bail bond company can post a surety bond on behalf of a client, allowing them to be released from jail.
  • Explanation 2: This means the company provides the financial guarantee to the court, ensuring the client's release.

• As a prefix meaning "after": Derived from Latin, "post" is often used as a prefix in legal terms to indicate something that occurs subsequent to another event or period.

  • Example 1: A post-trial motion is a request made to the court after a trial has concluded, often seeking a new trial or a different judgment.
  • Explanation 1: "Post-trial" indicates that the motion takes place after the trial.
  • Example 2: A couple might sign a post-nuptial agreement, which is a contract entered into after their marriage to define property and financial rights.
  • Explanation 2: "Post-nuptial" signifies that the agreement is made after the marriage.