Book Review: Legal Terms & Terminology (Volumes 1 & 2)
Introduction
Legal Terms & Terminology (Volumes 1 and 2) is a comprehensive reference work authored by Farhad Uddin Ahmed Bhuiyan, Advocate, Appellate Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh. This two-volume set stands as a significant contribution to legal literature, offering a systematic compilation of legal terms with interpretations and case law references from multiple jurisdictions. Designed for law students, practicing advocates, judges, academicians, and legal researchers, the book aims to simplify complex legal language while maintaining doctrinal accuracy and practical relevance.
Overview of the Book
The first edition of Legal Terms & Terminology, published in January 2024, is divided into two volumes.
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Volume 1 covers legal terms from A to J
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Volume 2 covers legal terms from K to Z
Together, the volumes span 1,788 pages, making this work one of the most extensive compilations of legal terminology available in Bangladesh. Each term is presented with a clear definition, contextual interpretation, and references to relevant case laws. The author draws upon jurisprudence from different jurisdictions, enabling readers to understand not only the meaning of a term but also its application in judicial reasoning.
Content and Structure
The book adopts an alphabetical arrangement, which enhances usability and quick reference. Each entry is explained in simple, precise, and legally accurate language. Where necessary, judicial precedents are cited to illustrate how courts have interpreted and applied specific terms in practice. This approach bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application, which is particularly beneficial for courtroom advocacy and academic research.
Critical Evaluation
The strength of Legal Terms & Terminology lies in its depth, clarity, and systematic presentation. The integration of case law references with definitional explanations allows readers to grasp the nuanced meaning of legal terms beyond textbook definitions. The exhaustive coverage ensures that readers are unlikely to encounter a commonly used legal term that is not addressed in the volumes. As a reference work, it demonstrates scholarly rigor and practical utility, making it suitable for both beginners in legal education and seasoned practitioners.
Personal Response
Engaging with these volumes provides a strong foundation in legal terminology and significantly enhances legal comprehension. The structured explanations, supported by relevant judicial decisions, are particularly valuable for understanding the precise use of legal language. For students, the book aids academic learning, while for practitioners, it serves as a dependable reference during legal research and case preparation. Its clarity and comprehensiveness make it a resource worth frequent consultation.
Conclusion
Legal Terms & Terminology (Volumes 1 and 2) is an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the study or practice of law. Its A to Z coverage, clear explanations, and authoritative case references establish it as a reliable guide to legal language. The work not only enriches legal knowledge but also promotes accurate and effective use of legal terminology in both academic and professional contexts.
Written by Jesmin Jeba, LL.B & LL.M, University of Rajshahi
