In legal contexts, “authorities” refer to sources of law that courts, attorneys, and legal professionals rely on to support legal arguments, decisions, or interpretations. Authorities can include a wide range of materials, such as statutes, regulations, case law, treaties, legal opinions, scholarly articles, and legal treatises. These sources are used to establish legal principles, clarify legal issues, and provide guidance on how the law should be applied or interpreted in specific situations. When presenting legal arguments or making decisions, parties often cite relevant authorities to support their positions and to persuade others of the validity of their arguments. Authorities play a crucial role in shaping legal reasoning, ensuring consistency in judicial decisions, and promoting the rule of law within society.
Authorities (noun):
1. The individuals or groups who have the power or right to enforce laws, rules, or regulations within a particular jurisdiction or domain. They are responsible for maintaining order, ensuring public safety, and upholding justice.
2. A governing body or organization that has the official power to make decisions, set policies, and exercise control over a specific area, such as a government, institution, or agency.
3. Experts or professionals in a specific field who possess extensive knowledge, expertise, or experience and are recognized as reliable sources of information or guidance. They are often consulted or cited for their expertise in making informed decisions or providing accurate information.
4. The power or influence exerted by someone in a position of authority, such as a leader, supervisor, or manager, to direct, command, or control others.
5. The accepted or recognized source of information, reference, or final decision in a particular matter, such as a book, document, or official record. It serves as a reliable and authoritative reference for accurate information or guidance.
n. 1) previous decisions by courts of appeal which provide legal guidance to a court on questions in a current lawsuit, which are called “precedents.” Legal briefs (written arguments) are often called “points and authorities.” Thus, a lawyer “cites” the previously decided cases as “authorities” for his/her legal positions. 2) a common term for law enforcement, as in “I’m going to call the authorities” (i.e. police).
Authorities refer to individuals or organizations that have the power or jurisdiction to enforce laws, regulations, or rules within a specific jurisdiction. They are responsible for maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and upholding justice. Authorities can include various entities such as government agencies, law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and judicial institutions. These entities are granted the authority to investigate, prosecute, and adjudicate legal matters, as well as to impose penalties or sanctions for non-compliance with the law. The scope of authority and the specific powers granted to authorities may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the legal system in place.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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