Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Summary: A summary is a short and concise version of something, like a story or an event. It is often used in place of a longer, more detailed version. A summary trial is a trial without a jury, and a summary use is when something is used immediately and without delay. Summarily is the adverb form of summary. A summary can also refer to a short application to a court without a full proceeding.
Summary (adjective) means short and concise. For example, a summary account of a book or movie would give a brief overview of the main points without going into too much detail.
It can also mean without the usual formalities, such as a summary trial where a judge makes a decision without a jury.
Additionally, it can mean immediate and done without delay. For instance, if a new weapon is put to summary use by the military, it means they started using it right away without waiting for further instructions.
Summarily (adverb) is the adverb form of summary.
Summary (noun) can also mean an abridgment or brief, like a summary of a long report or article. It can also refer to a short application to a court without the formality of a full proceeding.
For example, if someone wants to file a summary judgment, they can ask the court to make a decision without going through a full trial.