An arithmetical charac- ter, by which some number is noted ; a figure, for example, 1776. Ciphers ought not to be used to express the sums mentioned in a contract ; but it is usual to date all simple contracts with ciphers ; deeds ami writs should lie dated by words at …
A guide to Cipher
ter, by which some number is noted ; a
figure, for example, 1776. Ciphers
ought not to be used to express the
sums mentioned in a contract ; but it
is usual to date all simple contracts
with ciphers ; deeds ami writs should
lie dated by words at length. Vide
Figures , and 13 Vin. Ah. 210; 18
Eng. C. L. R. 95 ; 1 Ch. Cr. Law,
176.
Why Cipher is relevant in U.S. law
Cipher 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.
When and how Cipher applies
In practice, Cipher 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 Bouvier's Law Dictionary (1856) , 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.