Cognovit actionem — Law Dictionary

Ballentine's Law Dictionary

James A. Ballentine · 1916

Same as Cognovit.

Black's Law Dictionary

Henry Campbell Black, M.A. · 1910

(He has confessed the action.) A defendant's written confession of an action brought against him, to which he has no available defense. It ls usually upon condition that he shall be allowed a certain time for the payment of the debt or damages, and costs. It is supposed to be given In court, and It Impliedly authorizes the plaintiff's attorney to sign judgment and issue execution. Mallory v. Kirkpatrick, 54 N. J. Eq. 50, 33 Atl. 205.

A Dictionary of Law

Henry Campbell Black · 1891

(He has confessed the action.) A defendant's written confession of an action brought against him, to which he has no available defense. It is usually upon condition that he shall be allowed a certain time for the payment of the debt or damages, and costs. It is supposed to be given in court, and it impliedly authorizes the plaintiff’s attorney to sign judgment and issue execution.

A New Law Dictionary and Glossary

Alexander M. Burrill · 1850

Lat. (He hath acknowledged the action); sometimes simply termed a COGNOVIT.

In practice. A written confession of an action at law, signed by the defendant, or his attorney, given to the plaintiff after receiving his declaration, and before plea. In substance, it acknowledges the demand to be just, and authorizes the plaintiff to enter judgment for a sum named, either absolutely, or upon specified conditions.* 1 Tidd's Pr. 559. Where it is given after plea pleaded, it is usually termed a relicta, or relicta and cognovit. Id. ibid. See Relicta.