Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Terminus a quo: This is a fancy Latin phrase that means "the point from which." It is used in law to talk about the starting point for something. For example, if we want to calculate how long it takes to get from one place to another, we need to know the terminus a quo, or the starting point. It can also be used to talk about the earliest time when something can happen.
Definition: Terminus a quo is a Latin term used in law to refer to the starting point or earliest time from which something is calculated or an action is possible.
Example: In a contract, the terminus a quo for payment may be the date of delivery of goods or completion of services.
Explanation: This means that the payment will be due from the date of delivery or completion of services, and not before. The terminus a quo is important in determining deadlines and timelines in legal matters.
Another example: The terminus a quo for filing taxes in the United States is January 1st of the current tax year.
Explanation: This means that taxpayers can start filing their taxes from January 1st of the current tax year, and not before. The terminus a quo helps establish a clear starting point for legal obligations and actions.