Person
Person: In law, anyone or anything the law recognizes as able to hold rights and duties. The word covers natural persons (human beings) and, when a statute says so, artificial or legal persons such as corporations. For example, under 1 U.S.C. § 1, unless the context indicates otherwise, the words "person" and "whoever" in federal statutes include corporations, companies, associations, firms, partnerships, societies and joint stock companies, as well as individuals. Many statutes define "person" for their own purposes, so read the definition section of the law you are using.
What person means
In short, person is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.
Where person 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
Start with the primary source. For example, if person 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 person 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
- Notice of appeal: the document that starts an appeal.
- Order: a written direction or ruling by the court.
- Person entitled to enforce: under UCC § 3-301, the holder of an instrument, a nonholder in possession with the rights of a holder, or a person entitled to enforce a lost or similar instrument.
- Personal jurisdiction: a court's authority over a particular defendant.
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: 2026-10-23
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.