Semble

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Semble is a legal term used when discussing published opinions. The word is the Norman (and Modern) French verbal form for[1] meaning "it seems or appears to be" [1] or, more simply, "it seems".[2][3]

## Law[edit]

The legal expression "semble" indicates that the point to which it refers is uncertain or represents only the judge's opinion.[1][2] In a law report, the expression precedes a proposition of law which is an obiter dictum by the judge, or a suggestion by the reporter.[3]

For example, in the headnote[4] for House of Lords' decision in Hedley Byrne v Heller,[5] the reporter uses the term semble when summarising certain remarks of Lords Reid, Morris, and Hodson on a point which did not arise for decision in the case; semble indicates that this may be the law, but it falls to a future case to decide authoritatively.[2]

In Simpkins v Pays [1955],[6] Sellers J, having made an award to the plaintiff, suggested "semble" that an equal award was due to the defendant's granddaughter, even though she was not party to the action.

## References[edit]

1. ^ a b c Mann, Trischa, ed. (2010), "semble", Australian Law Dictionary. e-reference edition., Oxford University Press. Oxford Reference Online, ISBN 978-0-19-969144-9
2. ^ a b c Jonathan Law and Elizabeth A. Martin, ed. (2009), "semble", A Dictionary of Law. (7th (print version) © Market House Books Ltd ed.), Oxford University Press. Oxford Reference Online., ISBN 978-0-19-955124-8
3. ^ a b Harvey Cortlandt Voorhees (1911) Concise Law Dictionary (revised edition; original compiled by Frederic Jesup Stimson) Little, Brown and Company, Boston at 311
4. ^ (at page 576 E-F)
5. ^ [1963] 2 All All ER 575
6. ^ 'Simpkins v Pays' [1955] 1 WLR 975 Queen's Bench Division