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Simple English definitions for legal terms
assume
Read a random definition: right of action
A quick definition of assume:
Assume: To take on a responsibility or duty. For example, if someone owes money, another person can assume that debt and take responsibility for paying it. In legal situations, assuming a contract or lease means deciding whether to keep it or end it. Sometimes, people use "assume" to mean they believe something is true without proof.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: To undertake a duty or responsibility. In legal contexts, it means to take over someone else's duty or responsibility.
For example, if Alice assumes Bob's liability for a debt, she takes over Bob's debt. In bankruptcy proceedings, "assume or reject" means to make a decision about a contract or lease that is still valid.
Assume can also mean to suppose something is true without proof.
Legal: Alice assumes Bob's liability for a debt.
Bankruptcy: The company must decide whether to assume or reject the lease on their office space.
Everyday: I assume the store will be open until 9 pm, but I haven't checked their hours.
The examples illustrate how assume can be used in different contexts. In the legal and bankruptcy examples, assume means taking over a responsibility or making a decision about a contract or lease. In the everyday example, assume means supposing something is true without checking.