In legal terms, “corpus” typically refers to the body or substance of something, often used in phrases like “corpus juris” (body of law) or “corpus delicti” (body of the crime). “Corpus” can also refer to a collection of writings or documents, such as a corpus of legal texts. In the context of habeas corpus, it refers to the body of the detained individual, and the writ seeks to determine whether their detention is lawful. Overall, “corpus” denotes the core or essence of something within the legal realm.
n. 1) Latin for body. 2) the principal (usually money, securities and other assets) of a trust or estate as distinguished from interest or profits.
In legal terminology, corpus typically refers to the body or substance of a legal document, statute, or legal principle.
In Latin, “corpus” translates to “body.” In legal contexts, it often refers to the main or substantive part of a legal text or document.
Habeas corpus, Latin for “you shall have the body,” is a legal principle that protects individuals from unlawful detention. In this context, corpus refers to the physical body of a person who is being detained.
Corpus juris, Latin for “body of law,” refers to a comprehensive collection or system of laws or legal principles. In this context, corpus represents the entirety of legal rules and doctrines within a particular jurisdiction or legal system.
Corpus delicti, Latin for “body of the crime,” refers to the physical evidence or substance of a crime. It may include the body of a victim in homicide cases or tangible evidence such as stolen property or contraband in other criminal offences.
In property law, corpus typically refers to the principal or capital of a trust or estate, including tangible assets such as land, buildings, and personal property.
Yes, corpus can also be used more broadly to refer to the main or substantive part of a legal document, statute, contract, or legal argument.
The corpus of a trust, also known as the trust principal, is the property or assets held within the trust. It represents the initial contribution to the trust and may include various types of assets such as real estate, investments, cash, or personal property.
Corpus juris civilis, Latin for “body of civil law,” refers to the codification of Roman law compiled under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. In this context, corpus represents the compilation of legal principles and rules that formed the foundation of civil law in many Western legal systems.
While the term corpus originated from Latin, its usage has been adopted in legal terminology in various legal systems, including those not based on Latin roots. It is commonly used to refer to the substance or body of legal documents, principles, and doctrines.
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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