Legal Definitions - summary

The term "summary" can be used as both an adjective and a noun, carrying distinct but related meanings, particularly in a legal context.

As an Adjective:

When used as an adjective, "summary" describes something that is:

1. Concise or Abbreviated: Describing something that is brief, condensed, or presents the main points without extensive detail.
   • Example 1: "The attorney provided a summary of the 200-page deposition transcript, highlighting only the key testimonies relevant to the upcoming motion."

     Explanation: This illustrates "summary" meaning a condensed version, focusing on essential information from a larger document, rather than presenting every detail.

   • Example 2: "Before the board meeting, each director received a summary financial report, showing the company's performance without all the detailed ledger entries."

     Explanation: Here, "summary" refers to a brief overview of financial data, omitting less critical details for quick understanding by the directors.

2. Expedited or Without Full Formalities: In a legal context, this refers to a process or proceeding that is conducted quickly, often without the extensive procedures, discovery, or a jury trial typically associated with a full lawsuit.
   • Example 1: "The judge granted a summary judgment, deciding the case based on the submitted documents because there were no genuine disputes of material fact requiring a full trial."

     Explanation: This shows a legal decision made swiftly, bypassing a full trial because the facts were clear enough from the evidence presented, making a lengthy process unnecessary.

   • Example 2: "Many jurisdictions handle minor traffic infractions through a summary proceeding, where a judge hears the case without a jury and issues a decision immediately."

     Explanation: This highlights a legal process designed for speed and efficiency, avoiding the lengthy formal steps of a more complex trial for less serious offenses.

   • Example 3: "In urgent situations, a court might issue a summary order for protection, providing immediate relief to a party without waiting for a full evidentiary hearing."

     Explanation: This demonstrates a legal action taken without delay or extensive preliminary steps, due to the immediate need for protection.

As a Noun:

When used as a noun, "summary" refers to:

1. A Brief Account or Abridgment: A condensed version of a larger document, event, or set of facts.
   • Example 1: "After reviewing all the evidence, the prosecutor prepared a written summary of the case for the district attorney, outlining the charges and key proofs."

     Explanation: This refers to a document that condenses complex information into a shorter, more manageable form, providing an overview of the entire case.

   • Example 2: "The court clerk provided a summary of the day's proceedings to the public, listing the cases heard and the outcomes without detailing every argument."

     Explanation: Here, "summary" is a brief report that captures the essence of a longer event or series of events, making it accessible to a wider audience.