COMMERCE
act of nature
Act of nature, also known as act of God, is an event that is caused solely by the forces of nature without human intervention.
actual authority
actual damages
In tort law, actual damages, also known as compensatory damages, are damages awarded by a court equivalent to the loss a party suffered. If a party’s right was technically violated but they suffered no harm or losses, a court may instead grant nominal damages.
ADA
See: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
[Last reviewed in November of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]
addendum
adequate remedy
An adequate remedy is one that affords complete relief with reference to the particular matter in controversy and which is appropriate given the circumstances of the case.
adhesion contract
An adhesion contract, also known as a contract of adhesion, is a contract where the parties are of such disproportionate bargaining power that the party of weaker bargaining power could not have negotiated for variations in the terms of the contract.
adhesion contract (contract of adhesion)
An adhesion contract exists if the parties are of such disproportionate bargaining power that the party of weaker bargaining strength could not have negotiated for variations in the terms of the adhesion contract.
adjustable rate mortgage (ARM)
Adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is a type of mortgage where the interest rate changes over time. In contrast, fixed rate mortgages made for 15, 20, or 30 years, have a set amount of interest on the loan that does not change. ARMs come in many different forms. The typical ARM has a fixed interest rate for a specific amount of time.