Passport

What passport means

In practice, you will see passport 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 passport 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: 22 U.S.C. § 211a.

How to research the term

To research passport, 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

• Outlawry: at common law, a process that put a person who refused to answer legal process outside the protection of the law. It applied in civil as well as criminal cases. Outlawry for treason or felony amounted to a conviction and led to attainder.
• Overruled: has two meanings. First, the judge's ruling rejecting an objection, so the question may be answered or the evidence admitted. Second, a precedent is overruled when a court with authority to do so decides that the earlier decision is no longer good law.
• Partition: a court case or agreement that divides property owned by two or more people. A court may order partition in kind, which physically divides the property, or partition by sale, which sells it and splits the money. Many states have adopted the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act for inherited land.
• Party: a person or entity that takes part in a lawsuit as a plaintiff, defendant or other named participant, and is bound by the result.

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.