May-issue
May-issue: A carry-permit system in which officials had discretion to deny a permit unless the applicant showed a special need, such as New York's "proper cause" rule. In New York State Rifle & Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, 597 U.S. 1 (2022), the Supreme Court held New York's proper-cause requirement unconstitutional, and the remaining may-issue jurisdictions changed their laws.
What may-issue means
Put simply, may-issue 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 may-issue 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 may-issue 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
- Mandate: the formal order an appellate court sends to the lower court telling it the appeal has been decided and directing further action. In the federal courts of appeals, Federal Rule of Appellate Procedure 41 governs when the mandate issues.
- Manufacturer's certificate of origin: a document the manufacturer issues for a new vehicle that identifies the vehicle and transfers it to the first dealer.
- Material fact: a fact that could affect the outcome of the case under the governing law.
- Maxim: a short statement of a general legal principle, often in Latin, such as "Equity regards as done that which ought to be done." Courts cite maxims to explain their reasoning, but a maxim is not itself a statute or a binding rule.
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.