Doctrine

What doctrine means

Put simply, doctrine 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 doctrine 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.

How to research the term

First, read the term where it actually appears. A rule, statute or court decision may define it for its own purposes. Next, check whether your court has a local rule that uses doctrine in a special way. Then look at recent decisions from courts in your jurisdiction. They show how judges apply the term today. Also, remember that state law can differ from federal law. For that reason, use our state procedures guide to find your state’s rules. Finally, confirm every source is current before you rely on it.

You can read the current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Dispute: a disagreement between parties about a fact, a right or a claim.
• Disqualification: removal of a judge, lawyer or other person from taking part in a case. For federal judges, 28 U.S.C. § 455 lists the grounds for disqualification. Lawyers can be disqualified for conflicts of interest under the applicable rules of professional conduct.
• Docket: the court's official record of filings and events in a case.
• Docket sounding: a court session, used in Florida circuit courts, at which the judge calls the cases set for an upcoming trial period to find out whether each one is ready for trial, has settled or needs a continuance.

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.