Legal Definitions - secus

Secus is a Latin term used in legal contexts to mean "otherwise" or "to the contrary." It indicates that a different rule, condition, or situation applies than what has just been stated, or that there is an exception to a general principle.

• Example 1: Contractual Obligations

  A standard clause in a service agreement might state, "All payments are due within 30 days of invoice receipt." The agreement might then add, "Secus, for government contracts, payment terms shall align with federal procurement regulations."

  Explanation: Here, "secus" clarifies that while the general rule is 30-day payment, a different set of rules (federal regulations) applies "otherwise" or "to the contrary" for a specific type of client (government contracts).

• Example 2: Property Inheritance

  A will might stipulate, "All personal belongings shall be divided equally among my surviving children." It could then continue, "Secus, my antique watch collection is specifically bequeathed to my grandson, Arthur."

  Explanation: In this instance, "secus" introduces an exception to the general rule of equal division, indicating that the watch collection is to be handled "otherwise" or "to the contrary" of the general distribution plan.

• Example 3: Court Procedures

  A court's standing order might state, "All legal briefs must be filed electronically through the court's online portal." A footnote or subsequent paragraph might clarify, "Secus, for parties representing themselves without legal counsel, paper filings will be accepted."

  Explanation: This use of "secus" highlights an exception to the electronic filing rule, allowing self-represented individuals to file "otherwise" (via paper) due to their specific circumstances.