Legal Definitions - know all men by these presents

Definition: This phrase is an archaic way of addressing a group of people, meaning "take note." It comes from the Latin phrase "noverint universi per praesentes" and was traditionally used to begin certain legal documents like bonds and powers of attorney. However, in modern drafting style, this phrase is generally considered unnecessary.

Example: "Know all men by these presents that I, John Smith, hereby grant power of attorney to Jane Doe."

This example shows how the phrase was used to introduce a legal document, specifically a power of attorney.

Example: "Know all men by these presents that I, Sarah Johnson, have received the sum of $500 from John Doe."

This example also shows how the phrase was used to introduce a legal document, specifically a bond or agreement to repay a debt.

Overall, the phrase "know all men by these presents" was a formal way of addressing a group of people and introducing a legal document, but it is no longer commonly used in modern drafting style.