Represent Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Represent?

(V) Represent is the action by which a person legitimately appear before an authority or for an event on behalf of some other person, as his authorized substitute

History and Meaning of Represent

The term "represent" has its origins in the Latin word "repraesentare", meaning "to bring before". In a legal context, the word has evolved to mean the action of acting on behalf of someone else, with authority to do so.

In law, representation is crucial to ensure the fair administration of justice. It allows individuals who may not be able to appear before an authority or court to have their interests represented by someone with the necessary authority and knowledge to protect those interests.

Examples of Represent

  1. A lawyer may represent a client in court to argue their case before a judge.

  2. A shareholder may authorize someone to represent them at a company's annual general meeting, allowing them to participate in the decision-making process without being physically present.

  3. A diplomat may represent their country in negotiations with other countries, acting on behalf of their government to protect the country's interests.

Legal Terms Similar to Represent

Some related legal terms include:

  1. Attorney: A person legally authorized to act on behalf of another person in legal matters.

  2. Guardian ad litem: A person appointed by a court to represent the interests of a minor or incapacitated person in legal proceedings.

  3. Power of attorney: A legal document that authorizes an individual to act on behalf of another person in certain matters, such as financial or medical decisions.