Also known as: laici · laicum · laica · laicae · layman · layperson · lay
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
An individual who is not ordained as a member of the clergy.
Select any source to read its text and confirm it supports the definition.
Lily Lopez, a laicus without clerical status, petitioned Congress under its taxing authority to adjust an excise on imported goods that burdened her small business. The petition succeeded because the uniformity requirement applied equally to all citizens regardless of religious standing. Her status as a laicus confirmed she held no special exemption from the revenue measure.
Luke Latham, identified as a laicus in historical records, contested a state-imposed duty on exports that lacked congressional consent. The restriction on state imposts applied directly to him as an ordinary citizen. The court invalidated the duty because only Congress could authorize such levies affecting a laicus engaged in commerce.
Lamar Lewis, a laicus operating a mill, sought damages after a carrier's delay halted operations. The court limited recovery to losses a laicus could reasonably foresee at the time of contracting. Special circumstances unknown to the carrier did not increase liability for this ordinary lay party.
Luna Lang, a laicus interviewed by counsel, provided statements that opposing parties sought to discover. The court shielded the materials because a laicus's factual account given in anticipation of litigation receives qualified protection. Disclosure required a showing of substantial need that was not met.
Lena Lawson, a laicus parent, objected to religious classes held in public school buildings during regular hours. The court found the program violated separation principles because a laicus student could not be required to participate in sectarian teaching on public property. The arrangement was enjoined.
Lexicon Media, representing laicus readers, petitioned an agency to adopt stricter environmental standards. The court upheld the agency's discretion because a laicus organization may comment but cannot force a particular procedural path beyond statutory requirements. The petition was considered yet the final rule stood.
The term denotes a layperson outside the clergy and appears in historical legal usage to distinguish ordinary individuals from ordained ministers.
Supporting sources
…Judge at the next trial ought to direct the jury to be governed by when they estimate damages. It is of the last importance to lay down a definite rule, for if juries are left without guidance it may lead to great injustice. Where two parties have made a contract which one of them has broken, the damages which the…