Caveat Definition and Legal Meaning

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

What is Caveat?

(n) Caveat is the requirement of prior notice or information given to a party before taking any particular action concerning or directly effecting the them. The Latin word means let him beware. A sanction of Caveat petition requires the issue to be heard in the court before any authority takes a decision.

History and Meaning of Caveat

Caveat is an authoritative legal term that originated from the Latin language, meaning "let him beware." In legal contexts, it serves as a formal warning or caution that is sent before taking any action directly affecting a person or organization. It is used to ensure that all parties affected by a proposed action are made aware of it before it is taken.

In certain jurisdictions, Caveat can also be used to stop or delay a legal proceeding. A sanction of caveat petition requires that the issue at hand must be heard in court before any authority makes a final decision on it.

Examples of Caveat

  1. Before terminating a lease agreement, the landlord must give sufficient prior notice to the tenant, as a caveat to the termination.

  2. In a legal dispute, one party may file a caveat with the court to ensure that they are notified of any court activity that may affect the case.

  3. The Department of Transportation may send a caveat notice to homeowners in a particular neighborhood to inform them of construction plans that might affect their property rights.

Legal Terms Similar to Caveat

  1. Injunction - a court order that prohibits an individual or entity from doing something.

  2. Restraining Order - a court order that prohibits a specific action.

  3. Cease and Desist - a legal order compelling an individual or organization to stop an activity.