matter of law

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Definition

Noun A point, issue, or question concerning the application or interpretation of the law itself, as opposed to a question of fact. Such matters are decided by a judge, not by a jury.

Usage

This term is used in legal contexts to classify an issue that must be resolved by applying legal principles, statutes, or precedent. It is a formal categorization within court proceedings.

Examples
  • The defense argued that, as a matter of law, the evidence was inadmissible.
  • Whether the statute of limitations had expired was a pure matter of law for the court to determine.
  • The judge ruled on the matter of law before sending the factual disputes to the jury.
Advanced Usage
  • Question of law: A synonymous phrase often used interchangeably with "matter of law." It contrasts directly with a "question of fact."
    • Appellate courts typically review questions of law de novo.
  • As a matter of law: A phrase used to state that a conclusion is mandated by the legal rules, leaving no room for factual dispute.
    • The court held that the defendant was not liable as a matter of law.
Variants and Related Words
  • Legal issue: A broader term for any point arising from the law in a case.
  • Question of fact: The direct counterpart; an issue concerning what actually happened, typically decided by a jury.
Synonyms
  • Question of law
  • Legal question
  • Issue of law
Antonyms
  • Question of fact
  • Matter of fact
Related Phrases
  • Summary judgment: A judicial determination that, because there is no genuine dispute of material fact, a party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.
  • Judgment as a matter of law (JMOL): A ruling by a judge that a reasonable jury would not have a legally sufficient basis to decide for the other side.
Noun
  1. a disputed legal contention that is generally left for a judge to decide

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