Learning legal French can be a daunting task, but mastering the vocabulary is an essential step for anyone involved in the legal field or interested in understanding legal documents written in French. Here, we will explore some of the fundamental legal French vocabulary that will aid in comprehending and communicating legal concepts effectively.
Avocat translates to “lawyer” in English. This term refers to a person who is licensed to practice law and represents clients in legal matters.
Ma sœur est avocat et travaille dans un grand cabinet à Paris.
Juge means “judge.” This is a public officer appointed to decide cases in a law court.
Le juge a pris sa décision après avoir entendu tous les témoins.
Tribunal translates to “court” and refers to a place where justice is administered.
Le tribunal sera fermé demain en raison d’un jour férié.
Plaideur or “litigant” is someone involved in a lawsuit.
Les plaideurs attendaient anxieusement à l’extérieur de la salle d’audience.
Procès means “trial,” referring to the examination of evidence and the decision on legal cases.
Le procès a duré deux semaines avant que le jury ne rende son verdict.
Verdict refers to a decision on a disputed issue in a civil or criminal case or an inquest.
Le verdict dans l’affaire de fraude sera prononcé demain.
Plainte translates to “complaint.” It is a formal legal document stating the reasons for the lawsuit.
L’avocat a déposé une plainte au nom de son client.
Défendeur or “defendant” is the individual, company, or institution sued or accused in a court of law.
Le défendeur nie toutes les accusations portées contre lui.
Code civil refers to the “civil code,” a systematic collection of laws designed to comprehensively deal with the core areas of private law.
Le code civil français est un modèle suivi par de nombreux pays dans le monde.
Contentieux translates to “litigation,” referring to the process of taking legal action.
L’entreprise essaie d’éviter le contentieux en négociant directement avec les autres parties.
Legislation means “legislation,” which comprises laws passed by a government.
La nouvelle législation sur la protection des données entre en vigueur le mois prochain.
Préjudice or “harm” refers to injury or damage suffered due to someone’s actions or inactions.
Le tribunal a reconnu que le plaignant avait subi un préjudice significatif.
Condamnation means “conviction” and refers to the outcome of a criminal trial in which the defendant is found guilty.
Après plusieurs heures de délibération, le jury a atteint une condamnation.
Appel translates to “appeal,” a process by which a case is reviewed, and a higher court is asked to reconsider the lower court’s decision.
L’accusé a décidé de faire appel de la décision initiale.
Contrat means “contract,” a written or spoken agreement, especially one concerning employment, sales, or tenancy, that is intended to be enforceable by law.
Les deux parties ont signé le contrat après plusieurs semaines de négociations.
Testament refers to a “will” or “testament,” a legal document by which a person expresses their wishes as to how their property is to be distributed at death.
Mon grand-père a rédigé son testament avec l’aide de son avocat.
Infraction translates to “offense,” an act that goes against the law.
L’infraction mineure a été traitée par une amende plutôt que par un procès.
Acquittement means “acquittal,” a judgment that a person is not guilty of the crime with which they have been charged.
L’acquittement a été accueilli avec soulagement par la famille de l’accusé.
Understanding these terms is crucial for navigating the French legal system or engaging in legal matters that involve French language documents. Whether you are a law student, a professional in the legal field, or simply someone interested in legal French, familiarity with this vocabulary will enhance your comprehension and communication in legal contexts.
