Allonge

Allonge — Definition and meaning

An allonge is a slip of paper affixed to a negotiable instrument, as a bill of exchange, for the purpose of receiving additional endorsements for which there may not be sufficient space on the bill itself. An endorsement written on the allonge is deemed to be written on the bill itself. An allonge is more usually met with in countries using the Napoleonic Code, as the code requires every endorsement to express the consideration. Under English law, the simple signature of the endorser on the bill, without additional words, is sufficient to operate as a negotiation and so an allonge is seldom necessary.

The importance of Allonge

Allonge appears in U.S. legal practice across multiple practice areas. Knowing what it means — and when it applies — can determine the outcome of motions, filings, and negotiations. For non-lawyers, the value of looking up a precise definition is that legal terms often carry meanings that differ from everyday usage; relying on the common meaning can lead to costly missteps.

How Allonge is applied

In practice, Allonge is invoked when parties, judges, or attorneys need to identify the legal status of an issue, the rights of those involved, or the procedural step required next. The definition shown above is sourced from Wikipedia , which is widely cited in U.S. legal practice. Because U.S. law is jurisdictionally layered — federal, state, and sometimes local — the precise application of the term can vary by court, so check the controlling authority for your specific case.

Continue exploring

Related to Allonge

More terms starting with A

See all

a fortiori a non domino a posteriori a priori A priori and a posteriori A priori and a posteriori a priori assumption a quo a vinculo matrimonii a year and a day A.L.J. A&S AA AAA AAU AB Accessory (legal term) administrator ad prosequendum all rights reserved admiralty and maritime power algorithmic pricing alternate beneficiary alternative dispute resolution alternative pleading Admissible evidence ALWD Guide to Legal Citation Ab intest at