Legal Definitions - prosequi

Prosequi is a Latin term used in law that means to actively pursue or prosecute a legal action. It signifies the intention and act of carrying forward a lawsuit or criminal charge.

• Example 1: Criminal Prosecution
  After a thorough investigation, the District Attorney's office reviews the evidence against a suspect accused of embezzlement. Based on the strength of the case, they decide to formally charge the individual and move forward with a trial. This decision to proceed with the criminal charges and take the case to court is an act of prosequi.

  Explanation: Here, the District Attorney's office is actively pursuing the criminal case, demonstrating the meaning of prosequi as "to prosecute" or "to follow up" on a legal matter.

• Example 2: Civil Lawsuit
  A small business owner discovers that a former employee has stolen proprietary client data and is using it to start a competing business. The owner's attorney files a civil lawsuit seeking damages and an injunction to stop the former employee. The owner intends to vigorously pursue this lawsuit through all necessary legal steps.

  Explanation: By filing the lawsuit and intending to take it through the courts to achieve a resolution, the business owner is engaging in prosequi, actively pursuing their legal claim against the former employee.

• Example 3: Enforcement of a Judgment
  A contractor successfully sues a client for unpaid services and obtains a court judgment for the amount owed. When the client fails to pay, the contractor instructs their attorney to initiate lien proceedings against the client's property to secure payment.

  Explanation: The contractor's action to "initiate lien proceedings" is a form of prosequi, as they are actively pursuing the enforcement of a legal judgment to recover the money they are owed.