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Q

Definitions for legal terms and law concepts beginning with Q
Quaere
Latin for query as in an issue on which some doubt or question exists. - (see definition)
Qualified Privilege
A defence in defamation actions that defeats the claim when that defamation issues from specified occasions. - (see definition)
Quantum
Latin: amount or extent. - (see definition)
Quantum meruit
Latin for as much as is deserved. This is a legal principle under which a person should not be obliged to pay, nor should another be allowed to receive, more than the value of the goods or services exchanged. - (see definition)
Quash
To set aside. - (see definition)
Quasi-judicial
Refers to decisions made by administrative tribunals or government officials to which the rules of natural justice apply. - (see definition)
Queen's Counsel
An archaic designation of a barrister, phased out in most jurisdiction, indicating of its title holder faithfulness to the Crown, but more recently, contribution to the profession of lawyers. - (see definition)
Question of Privilege
A term of parliamentary law and procedure which refers to an urgent motion made at a meeting which seeks an immediate ruling on an alleged violation of the rights or privileges of members as a whole, or in regards to a negative personal remark. - (see definition)
Quia Emptores
A 1290 English statute that held that notwithstanding the subdivision (subinfeudation) of a feeholding; the new tenant owed feudal rights and obligations not to the seller but to the Land Lord. - (see definition)
Quicquid Plantatur Solo, Solo Cedit
Latin: whatever is planted in the ground, belongs to the ground. - (see definition)
Quid pro quo
Latin: something for something. The giving of something in exchange for another thing of equal value. - (see definition)
Qui facit per alium facit per se
He who acts through another, acts himself. - (see definition)
Quorum
The minimum number of voting members that must be in attendance at a meeting of an organization for that meeting to be regularly constituted. - (see definition)
Quo warranto
Latin and referring to a special legal procedure taken to stop a person or organization from doing something for which it may not have the legal authority, by demanding to know by what right they exercise the controversial authority. - (see definition)

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Unless otherwise noted, this article was written by Lloyd Duhaime, Barrister, Solicitor, Attorney and Lawyer (and Notary Public!). It is not intended to be legal advice and you would be foolhardy to rely on it in respect to any specific situation you or an acquaintance may be facing. In addition, the law changes rapidly and sometimes with little notice so from time to time, an article may not be up to date. Therefore, this is merely legal information designed to educate the reader. If you have a real situation, this information will serve as a good springboard to get legal advice from a lawyer.

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