Glossary of Common Legal Terms (P)

Parens Patriae

Translated from the Latin as parent of the country, this refers to the role of the State as sovereign and guardian of the citizens. This principle holds that the State must care for those who cannot care for themselves.

Party

One who files a petition or against whom a petition has been filed.

Perjury

This occurs when a person gives false evidence or false affidavit in a case.

Petition

A written document filed in a court asserting a claim or a right and seeking relief on legal grounds.

Pleadings

A collective noun for all the petitions, affidavits, replies, rejoinders drafted by or on behalf of the parties to a case.

Prayer

The relief(s) asked for in a petition or application.

Prima facie

At first sight; on the face of it.

Pro bono publico

Translated from the Latin as ’for the public good’. In PIL, this refers to a petitioner acting bonafide in the public interest.

Process Fees

These are fees payable for the costs of informing the opposite party through the registry that a case is listed on a particular day.

Prohibition

See writ petition.

Puisne Judge

A judge other than the Chief Justice.