Legal Definitions - quod erat faciendum

Q.E.F. stands for the Latin phrase quod erat faciendum, which translates to "which was to be done."

This term is used to indicate that a specific task, action, or objective has been successfully completed or fulfilled, often in accordance with a prior requirement, instruction, or plan. It signifies the successful execution of a duty or the accomplishment of a set goal.

• Example 1 (Legal Procedure):

  A law firm was under a court order to produce a specific set of financial documents for discovery by a certain date. After diligent work gathering and organizing the extensive records, the paralegal successfully submitted all required documents to the opposing counsel before the deadline.

  Explanation: The production of the financial documents was the specific task "which was to be done" as mandated by the court. Its successful and timely submission demonstrates that the firm fulfilled its obligation, illustrating quod erat faciendum.

• Example 2 (Contractual Obligation):

  A software development company was contracted to build a custom application for a client, with a key deliverable being the integration of a secure payment gateway. Upon final testing, the payment gateway functioned flawlessly, processing transactions securely and efficiently as specified in the agreement.

  Explanation: The successful integration and functionality of the secure payment gateway was a critical component "which was to be done" according to the contract. Its perfect operation signifies that the company met this contractual requirement, thus achieving quod erat faciendum.

• Example 3 (Regulatory Compliance):

  A manufacturing plant was cited by an environmental agency for certain emissions violations and was given six months to implement new filtration systems to meet updated air quality standards. After investing in new technology and training staff, the plant passed its follow-up inspection, showing a significant reduction in emissions below the new regulatory limits.

  Explanation: The implementation of new filtration systems and the reduction of emissions to meet the updated air quality standards were the necessary actions "which were to be done" to comply with regulations. Passing the inspection confirmed the successful completion of these tasks, exemplifying quod erat faciendum.