De Facto
Latin for 'in fact.' Describes something that exists in reality even if not officially recognized by law.
Encyclopedia entry: De Facto
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de facto
De facto action is an action taken without strict legal authority to do so, but recognized as legally valid nonetheless. The action is considered something that acquires validity based on the fact of its existence and tradition.
[Last reviewed in January of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team
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Encyclopedia content from Cornell LII Wex (CC-BY-NC-SA 2.5).
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.