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Legal English Phrasal Verbs – Part 2: 10 More Key Expressions Every Lawyer Must Know
Introduction:
Legal professionals use phrasal verbs every day—often without even realizing it. Whether you’re drafting documents or negotiating terms, understanding these expressions can improve your fluency and confidence. Here are 10 more essential Legal English phrasal verbs to add to your toolkit.
10 More Phrasal Verbs Every Lawyer Should Know:
1. Carry out
Definition: To perform or execute a legal action, task, or order.
- The executor must carry out the terms of the will without delay.
- The parties agreed to carry out their confidentiality obligations even after termination.
- The police were ordered to carry out the search pursuant to the signed warrant.
2. Step down
Definition: To resign or withdraw from a legal role or position.
- The judge chose to step down after a motion for recusal was filed.
- As part of the settlement, the CEO agreed to step down within 30 days.
- The mediator stepped down to avoid a potential conflict of interest.
3. Hand over
Definition: To transfer possession or control, usually of documents or evidence.
- The defendant was compelled to hand over all emails relevant to the claim.
- Counsel refused to hand over privileged material without a protective order.
- The buyer requested that the seller hand over the corporate records before closing.
4. Iron out
Definition: To resolve or finalize small legal disagreements or unclear terms.
- The lawyers met to iron out the last remaining issues in the licensing agreement.
- We still need to iron out the non-compete provisions before signing.
- The parties were able to iron out the payment schedule during the conference call.
5. Call off
Definition: To cancel or terminate a planned legal event.
- The deposition was called off due to a scheduling conflict.
- They called off the mediation once the case was dismissed.
- The arbitrator called off the hearing pending review of jurisdictional issues.
6. Follow through
Definition: To complete or enforce a planned legal step.
- The client asked if the firm had followed through with the notice of appeal.
- Counsel failed to follow through on filing the witness list by the deadline.
- The agency followed through by imposing a fine under the new regulations.
7. Set forth
Definition: To formally state, explain, or lay out in writing.
- The rights and obligations are set forth in Section 8 of the agreement.
- The statute clearly sets forth the elements of the offense.
- The policy sets forth procedures for submitting a formal complaint.
8. Look over
Definition: To review briefly or casually.
- Please look over the proposed settlement agreement before the hearing.
- The associate looked over the case file to prepare for the client meeting.
- He looked over the draft motion but asked for more legal support on page three.
9. Take on
Definition: To assume responsibility, representation, or liability.
- The firm took on three new asylum cases last quarter.
- The buyer agreed to take on any outstanding tax liabilities.
- She’s not ready to take on full trial responsibility yet.
10. Opt out
Definition: To formally decline participation in a legal process or system.
- Class members have until July 15 to opt out of the settlement.
- The contract includes a clause allowing either party to opt out of arbitration.
- Under data privacy law, users can opt out of certain tracking activities.
See more phrasal verbs at our previous post: Legal English Phrasal Verbs – Part 1 (20 Essential Expressions for Lawyers).
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Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: The content provided herein is only for discussion purposes and may contain errors. The reader is responsible to confirm the accuracy of the information provided. The content does not constitute legal or professional advice. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage incurred directly or indirectly from the use of this information.
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8 Key Legal English Vocabulary Words for Appeals and Enforcement – Litigation Vocabulary Series – Part 8
Legal English Litigation Vocabulary Series – Part 8 Litigation Vocabulary Series – Part 8: Legal English for Appeals and Enforcement
Introduction To Legal English for Appeals and Enforcement
The litigation process doesn’t always end with judgment. For many clients, the most critical work begins with an appeal or the challenge of enforcing a judgment. This final stage requires a new set of Legal English skills—focused on persuasive writing, procedural accuracy, and strategic enforcement tools. In Part 8 of our Litigation Vocabulary Series, we cover essential vocabulary for lawyers handling appellate litigation or enforcing court-ordered outcomes across jurisdictions.
8 Key Vocabulary Words for Appeals and Enforcemnt
1. Notice of Appeal
Definition:
A formal filing that initiates an appeal by notifying the court and opposing party of the intent to challenge the judgment.
Example:
The defendant filed a notice of appeal within the 30-day statutory deadline.
Legal Context:
This is the first procedural step in appellate litigation. The notice must be filed timely and correctly, or the right to appeal may be lost. It begins the process of transferring the case to a higher court for review.
2. Appellate Brief
Definition:
A written argument submitted to an appellate court, outlining the legal reasons for reversing or affirming the lower court’s decision.
Example:
The appellant’s brief argued that the trial court abused its discretion by excluding key evidence.
Legal Context:
Appellate briefs must cite legal precedent and explain how the trial court erred. They are central to the appellate process and often more influential than oral argument. Crafting persuasive, precise legal English in briefs is a critical skill.
- Appellant: The party appealing the lower court’s decision.
- Abuse of discretion: A standard of review alleging the trial court made a clearly unreasonable decision.
3. Record on Appeal
Definition:
The complete set of documents, pleadings, evidence, and transcripts from the trial court submitted for appellate review.
Example:
The record on appeal included all pre-trial motions and the trial transcript.
Legal Context:
The appellate court reviews only what is in the record; no new evidence may be introduced. Ensuring the completeness and clarity of this record is vital to appellate success.
4. Remand
Definition:
An appellate court’s order sending the case back to the trial court for further proceedings.
Example:
The appellate court reversed the judgment and remanded the case for a new trial.
Legal Context:
A remand may involve retrial, reconsideration, or other corrective actions. Lawyers must clearly understand and explain the appellate court’s instructions to proceed properly in the lower court.
5. Enforcement of Judgment
Definition:
The legal process of compelling the losing party to comply with the court’s final order—usually by paying damages or performing a specific act.
Example:
Plaintiff initiated enforcement proceedings after the defendant failed to pay the awarded damages.
Legal Context:
Enforcement mechanisms vary by jurisdiction and may include writs of execution, garnishment, or property liens. International lawyers must be familiar with both local and cross-border enforcement procedures.
- Garnishment: Legal seizure of wages or bank funds to satisfy a judgment.
- Lien: A legal claim on property to secure debt repayment.
6. Stay of Execution
Definition:
A court order temporarily suspending the enforcement of a judgment.
Example:
The trial court granted a stay of execution pending appeal.
Legal Context:
Stays are often granted to prevent irreparable harm while the appellate court considers the case. A bond may be required to protect the winning party during the delay.
- Bond: A security deposit guaranteeing payment if the appeal fails.
7. Writ of Certiorari
Definition:
An order from a higher court (typically a supreme court) agreeing to review a lower court’s decision.
Example:
The U.S. Supreme Court denied the petition for writ of certiorari, leaving the appellate ruling intact.
Legal Context:
This term often appears in high-level appellate work. It’s a discretionary tool—most petitions are denied—so the legal writing must be exceptionally persuasive.
8. Res Judicata
Definition:
A legal doctrine that prevents re-litigation of claims or issues that have already been finally decided.
Example:
The defendant moved to dismiss on grounds of res judicata, citing a previous judgment on the same facts.
Legal Context:
This principle ensures finality and judicial efficiency. Lawyers must understand when res judicata applies to avoid wasting resources or inadvertently forfeiting claims.
Conclusion
The appellate and enforcement stages require precision, strategy, and mastery of advanced Legal English. Whether drafting an appellate brief or enforcing a cross-border judgment, international lawyers must navigate complex language with clarity and confidence. Understanding the terms above will help ensure that your client’s victory—or appeal—is executed successfully.
For additional information see the following:
Appeals – U.S. Courts
Garnishment – Cornell LIITry Our Online Legal English Tutoring for Lawyers and Law Students
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Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: The content provided herein is only for discussion purposes and may contain errors. The reader is responsible to confirm the accuracy of the information provided. The content does not constitute legal or professional advice. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage incurred directly or indirectly from the use of this information.
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8 Key Legal English Words for Judgment and Remedies – Legal English Litigation Vocabulary Series – Part 7
Litigation Vocabulary Series – Part 7: Legal English for Judgment and Remedies
Introduction
When a trial concludes, the court enters its decision—and the consequences become real. Whether seeking financial compensation, injunctive relief, or a final declaration of rights, attorneys must be fluent in the specialized Legal English used to discuss judgment and remedies. This post—Part 7 in our 8-part Litigation Vocabulary Series—offers essential legal vocabulary to help international lawyers confidently navigate post-verdict proceedings and enforce outcomes across jurisdictions.
8 Key Words for Judgments and Remedies
1. Verdict
Definition:
The final decision by a jury (or a judge in a bench trial) on the issues presented during trial.
Example:
The jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff, awarding $500,000 in damages.
Legal Context:
The verdict may be general (a simple decision for one party) or special (answering specific factual questions). It forms the basis for the court’s judgment and must be consistent with the instructions and law.
- General verdict: A blanket decision on liability and damages.
- Special verdict: A decision that breaks down findings on each legal element.
2. Judgment
Definition:
The official decision of the court that resolves the legal dispute and concludes the case.
Example:
The court entered judgment in favor of the defendant and dismissed the case with prejudice.
Legal Context:
Judgment may include monetary awards, declaratory relief, or injunctive orders. It may be final or interlocutory (temporary). Lawyers may also move for post-judgment relief to modify, enforce, or appeal the judgment.
- With prejudice: The case is permanently dismissed and cannot be refiled.
- Interlocutory judgment: A ruling on part of the case that does not resolve all issues.
3. Compensatory Damages
Definition:
Monetary compensation awarded to make the injured party whole.
Example:
The court awarded $250,000 in compensatory damages for lost wages and medical expenses.
Legal Context:
These damages aim to restore the plaintiff to the position they were in before the harm occurred. Common categories include economic (like lost income) and non-economic (like pain and suffering) damages.
- Economic damages: Tangible, quantifiable losses.
- Non-economic damages: Intangible harms such as emotional distress.
4. Punitive Damages
Definition:
Damages awarded to punish the defendant for egregious conduct and deter future wrongdoing.
Example:
The jury awarded $1 million in punitive damages due to the defendant’s intentional fraud.
Legal Context:
Punitive damages are not tied to the plaintiff’s loss but instead focus on the defendant’s misconduct. They are awarded in addition to compensatory damages and are subject to constitutional limits in some jurisdictions.
5. Injunction
Definition:
A court order that requires a party to do or stop doing a specific act.
Example:
The court issued a permanent injunction barring the company from using the plaintiff’s trademark.
Legal Context:
Injunctions may be temporary, preliminary, or permanent. They are often used in intellectual property, employment, and commercial disputes. To obtain one, the party must demonstrate irreparable harm and lack of an adequate remedy at law.
- Irreparable harm: A type of injury that cannot be adequately compensated by money.
- Remedy at law: A legal (usually monetary) solution rather than equitable relief.
6. Declaratory Judgment
Definition:
A legal determination that resolves uncertainty by declaring the rights or obligations of parties.
Example:
The court entered a declaratory judgment affirming the plaintiff’s right to terminate the contract.
Legal Context:
Declaratory relief is often used preemptively to resolve disputes before they escalate. It provides clarity, especially in contract and insurance cases, without necessarily awarding damages.
7. Costs and Fees
Definition:
Court-ordered payment of litigation expenses and, in some cases, attorney’s fees.
Example:
The prevailing party moved for an award of costs and attorney’s fees under the contract’s fee-shifting clause.
Legal Context:
Typically, the prevailing party may recover costs such as filing fees, transcripts, and service fees. Attorney’s fees are only awarded when authorized by statute, contract, or specific court rules.
- Fee-shifting clause: A contract provision requiring the losing party to pay legal fees.
- Prevailing party: The party that achieves a favorable judgment.
8. Equitable Relief
Definition:
A remedy that involves non-monetary court action, such as injunctions, restitution, or specific performance.
Example:
The court granted equitable relief by ordering the return of property rather than monetary compensation.
Legal Context:
Equitable remedies are discretionary and based on fairness. They typically apply when legal (monetary) remedies are insufficient. Equitable principles—such as clean hands and balancing the equities—guide these decisions.
- Clean hands doctrine: A party seeking equity must be free of wrongdoing.
- Balancing the equities: The court considers fairness to both sides when granting relief.
Conclusion
Understanding the vocabulary of judgment and remedies is essential not just for winning a case—but for securing a result that actually serves your client’s interests. Whether negotiating a settlement, seeking injunctive relief, or filing a motion for attorney’s fees, mastery of this Legal English allows attorneys to act decisively and precisely in post-trial litigation.
For further information.
Judgment – Legal Information Institute
Injunction – U.S. Courts GlossaryBuild Your Legal English Skills with Confidence
Clear, confident communication is essential for every lawyer. Whether you’re working on conversations, meetings, or documents, strong Legal English helps you succeed. Book a free coaching session and start building skills you can use in any area of legal practice.
Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: The content provided herein is only for discussion purposes and may contain errors. The reader is responsible to confirm the accuracy of the information provided. The content does not constitute legal or professional advice. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage incurred directly or indirectly from the use of this information.