Legal Definitions - universus

Universus is a Latin term meaning "the whole" or "all together." In legal contexts, it refers to something being complete, entire, or encompassing every part without exception.

• Example 1: Contractual Agreement

  A software development contract includes a clause stating, "This document constitutes the universus agreement between the parties, superseding all prior discussions and understandings."

  Explanation: This means that the written contract itself represents the entire and complete agreement between the software company and the client. No other verbal promises or earlier drafts are considered part of the binding deal, emphasizing that the document contains all together the agreed-upon terms.

• Example 2: Estate Distribution

  In a will, a testator (the person making the will) specifies that their "universus estate, both real and personal property," should be liquidated and the proceeds donated to a specific charity.

  Explanation: This indicates that all of the testator's assets—every piece of real estate, every financial account, and all together their personal possessions—are to be included in the donation, leaving no part of the estate excluded from the charitable gift.

• Example 3: Legal Review

  During an appeal, the higher court decided to review the "universus record of proceedings" from the lower court before issuing its judgment.

  Explanation: This signifies that the appellate court intended to examine all the documents, transcripts, evidence, and filings that were part of the original trial. They wanted to consider the entirety of the case as it was presented below, ensuring a comprehensive understanding before making a decision.