potential — Law Dictionary

Definitions from Case Law

From 479 U.S. 462 - City of Pleasant Grove v. United States · 1987Most cited · 103 citing opinions

present and concrete effects, not effects based only on speculation as to what "might" happen at some time in the future.

Ballentine's Law Dictionary

James A. Ballentine · 1916

In possibility; not in fact; in efficacy, not in actuality. See 40 Kan. 220, 10 Am. St. Rep. 192, 19 Pac. 796.

Bouvier's Law Dictionary and Concise Encyclopedia

John Bouvier; revised by Francis Rawle · 1914

In possibility, not in act, not positively; in efficacy, not in actuality. Cole v. Kerr, 10 Neb. 55G, 26 N. W. 508. POTESTAS (Lat.). In Civil Law. Power; authority; domination; empire. Imperium, or the jurisdiction of magistrates. The power of the father over his children, patria potest as. The authority of masters over their slaves, which makes it nearly synonymous with dominium. See Jnst. 1. 9. 12; Dig. 2. 1. 13. 3; 11. 1; 11. 4. 1. 4.

Black's Law Dictionary

Henry Campbell Black, M.A. · 1910

Existing in possibility but not in act; naturally and probably expected to come into existence at some future time, though not now existing; for example, the future product of grain or trees already planted or the successive future instalments or payments on a contract or engagement already made. Things having a "potential existence" may be the subject of mortgage, assignment, or sale. See Campbell v. Grant Co.., 36 Tex. Civ. App. 641, 82 S. W. 796; Dickey v. Waldo, 97 Mich. 255, 56 N. W. 608, 23 In R. A. 449; Cole v. Kerr, 19 Neb. 553, 26 N. W. 598; Long v. Hines, 40 Kan. 220, 19 Pac. 796, 10 Am. St Rep. 192.