Legal Definitions - super

Super

In legal terminology, "super" is a prefix derived from Latin, meaning above, over, or higher. It indicates a position of superiority, precedence, or a subsequent action that takes effect over a prior one.

• Example 1: Superior Court

  Imagine a lawsuit initially heard in a local municipal court. If one party believes there was a legal error, they might appeal the decision to a Superior Court. This court is called "Superior" because it holds a higher position in the judicial hierarchy, meaning its authority and decisions are generally considered to be above those of the lower court.

• Example 2: Supersede

  Consider a situation where a city council passes a new ordinance regarding noise levels. This new ordinance might explicitly state that it supersedes all previous noise regulations. This means the new ordinance takes precedence and stands over or above any older, conflicting rules, effectively replacing them.

• Example 3: Supervening Event

  Suppose two companies enter into a contract for the delivery of goods. Before the delivery can occur, an unexpected and severe hurricane (a natural disaster) makes the agreed-upon shipping route impassable and destroys the goods. This hurricane would be considered a supervening event, meaning it occurred over or above the original contractual agreement, potentially excusing one or both parties from their obligations due to circumstances beyond their control.