Legal Definitions - in haec verba

Definition: In haec verba is a Latin phrase that means "in these words." It is used to refer to the exact language of an agreement or document, word for word.

For example, in a legal case, a lawyer might use the phrase "in haec verba" to indicate that they are quoting the exact words of a contract or agreement. This is often done instead of attaching a copy of the document to the complaint or pleading.

One example of the use of "in haec verba" in a legal context is in the case of Harris v. State. In this case, a Texas court held that in cases of forgery, it is important to set out the alleged forged instrument in the indictment in its tenor, "in haec verba." This means that the exact language of the forged document should be included in the indictment, if possible. If the document is lost or in the possession of the accused, this fact can be alleged instead.

Another example of the use of "in haec verba" might be in a contract dispute. If one party is claiming that the other party violated the terms of a contract, they might quote the exact language of the contract using the phrase "in haec verba" to show that the other party did not fulfill their obligations.

Overall, "in haec verba" is a useful phrase for indicating that the exact language of a document or agreement is being quoted, rather than paraphrased or summarized.