Code of Federal Regulations
Code of Federal Regulations: The official compilation of the general and permanent rules issued by federal agencies, arranged in 50 titles by subject and published by the Office of the Federal Register (44 U.S.C. § 1510). A regulation has the force of law only if Congress authorized it and the agency followed the required procedures.
What code of federal regulations means
In practice, you will see code of federal regulations in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where code of federal regulations 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: Federal Register.
How to research the term
Start with the primary source. For example, if code of federal regulations appears in a federal rule, read the rule itself and its official notes. After that, check your court’s local rules and any standing orders from the judge. In addition, search recent decisions from your own state or federal district. They show how courts read code of federal regulations in practice. Because state rules often differ, our state procedures guide links to each state’s official rules. Above all, make sure the version you read is still in force.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Clearly erroneous: the standard for reviewing a trial judge's findings of fact. Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 52(a)(6), findings of fact must not be set aside unless clearly erroneous, with due regard for the trial court's opportunity to judge the witnesses' credibility.
- Clerk: usually short for the clerk of court, the officer who keeps the court's records and docket, accepts filings, issues summonses and subpoenas and performs duties the rules assign, assisted by deputy clerks.
- Clerk of court: the court officer who maintains records, accepts filings and performs duties assigned by the rules, such as entering defaults.
- Client: a person or organization that engages a lawyer for legal services.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
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.