How to Use Legal Jargon
Legal jargon is more than just words spoken in a courtroom or read on legal filings. You can use legal jargon in your everyday life to friends, family and in your life's dealings. But to properly use legal jargon, you need to know the purpose behind the words or phrases. Read on to learn how to use legal jargon.
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Instructions
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Familiarize yourself with Latin. The roots to many legal words come from Latin derivatives. "Per" means by or through, depending on how it's used. "Bona" means good and is usually linked with "bona fide," or good faith.
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Obtain a copy of the "Black's Law Dictionary." Black's Law is a legal resource for not only those in the legal field, but also those that want to reference legal terminology. With words in alphabetical order, and definitions included, Black's Law can be your go to guide in using legal jargon.
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Learn lawsuit terminology. In the legal world, you hear of "lawsuits" or "suing" on a regular basis. Courts are broken down into divisions, such as civil, criminal, juvenile, probate and domestic relations, depending on the jurisdiction or venue of the case's filing. Cases begin in civil matters with the filing of "Complaints," and include "Affidavits" or "Statements of Fact."
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Incorporate common phrases. Using legal jargon in your everyday life will include saying "I object," or "That's hearsay." You may also say "per se," which means through or by itself--"I wouldn't say that per se."
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Put your use of legal jargon to the test. Receive constructive feedback from your friends and family members, as to your use of legal jargon.
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