Act Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Act.

Act (noun):

In the context of law, an 'Act' mainly refers to three things:

  1. The outcome of a decision made by a public entity, such as a court, a council, a magistrate, or a legislative body.

  2. A written document that verifies certain facts, such as an Act of Parliament.

  3. In relation to civil laws or contracts, it stands for a written piece that confirms that a particular thing has been said, done, or agreed upon.

When created by private individuals regarding their personal affairs, these are known as 'Private Acts'. They can revolve around aspects such as incomes and expenses, schedules, or receipts among other things.