Administrative Procedure Act
Administrative Procedure Act (legal definition): The federal law, enacted in 1946 and codified at 5 U.S.C. §§ 551–559 and 701–706, that governs how federal agencies make rules and decide cases, and how courts review agency action. It requires notice and an opportunity to comment for most rules (§ 553), sets procedures for formal hearings (§ 554), and lets courts set aside agency action that is "arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accordance with law" (§ 706). It applies to federal agencies, not to private parties or state governments.
What administrative procedure act means
Put simply, administrative procedure act definition is part of the working vocabulary of a civil case. The short definition above covers the usual meaning. Still, a specific rule, statute or contract can give it a narrower meaning. For that reason, check how it is used in your own documents.
Where administrative procedure act definition comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Due process.
How to research the term
To research administrative procedure act definition, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Account: has several legal meanings.
- Account debtor: under UCC Article 9, the person obligated on an account or other right to payment.
- Accounting: has two meanings.
- Administration: the management and settlement of a deceased person's estate under court supervision, including collecting assets, paying debts and distributing what remains. In government, the term refers to managing public affairs, or to the executive branch led by a particular President.
Why precise terms matter
Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.