Public
Public: Belonging to, or concerning, the people as a whole or the government. For example, public law governs the government and its relationship with individuals, such as constitutional, administrative and criminal law. Similarly, public records are government records that people can inspect under applicable law, and courts presume that court records are open to the public.
What public means
Put simply, public 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 public 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
To research public, 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
- Pro se: representing oneself in court without a lawyer. Also called self-represented or, in some courts, in pro per.
- Proceeds: money or property received from a sale or other disposition.
- Promissory note: a written promise by one party to pay a sum of money to another. Many promissory notes are negotiable instruments under UCC Article 3.
- Protective order: a court order limiting discovery to protect a party or person from annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense.
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: 2026-10-24
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.