In Haec Verba Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of In Haec Verba, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is In Haec Verba?

In latin it means” In these words”. It refers to incorporating the same wordings in the complain or pleading as mentioned in a deed or agreemnt which is in question or cause of dispute. It is done so instead of attaching a copy of the same with the pleading or complaint.

History and Meaning of In Haec Verba

In Haec Verba is a legal term that originated from Latin. It literally translates to "in these words." It refers to the act of incorporating the same language or wording that is used in a disputed document, such as a contract, agreement, or deed, into a legal complaint or pleading. Essentially, it means that the words used in the legal document at issue are being repeated in the complaint, rather than attaching a copy of the document to the complaint. This is often done as a way of simplifying legal proceedings and reducing the amount of paperwork involved in a case.

Examples of In Haec Verba

  1. A plaintiff is suing a defendant for breach of contract. The plaintiff's complaint includes a section that says, "In Haec Verba, the contract states: 'The defendant shall pay the plaintiff $10,000 on or before the first of each month for a period of 12 months.'"

  2. A tenant is suing their landlord for failing to repair a leaking roof. The tenant's complaint includes a section that says, "In Haec Verba, the lease agreement states: 'The landlord shall be responsible for making all necessary repairs to the property, including the roof.'"

  3. A party is filing a motion to dismiss a lawsuit against them. The motion includes a section that says, "In Haec Verba, the complaint alleges that the defendant 'breached the contract by failing to make payments on time.' However, the contract clearly states that no such deadline exists."

Legal Terms Similar to In Haec Verba

  1. Incorporation by reference: This refers to the act of including a separate document, such as a contract or agreement, as part of a legal complaint or pleading, and making it part of the official court record.

  2. Boilerplate language: This refers to standardized language that is used in legal documents, such as contracts, and is often included as a standard clause without variation.

  3. Pleading in the alternative: This refers to the act of making multiple claims or allegations in a legal complaint, in case the court does not find one of the claims to be valid.