What is represented by the phrase "in law"?

The phrase "in law" is closely associated with the term "de jure," which translates to "by law." It refers to situations that exist legally or that have been established according to law, as opposed to "de facto," which means "in fact" or "in practice," regardless of whether it is legally sanctioned. When something is described as de jure, it means that it is recognized officially by law, embodying the legitimate authority of statutes or legal principles. This understanding is crucial within legal contexts, where distinctions between what is lawful and what occurs in practice can significantly impact legal outcomes.

Other terms like dictum refer to statements made by judges that are not binding in subsequent decisions, while duces tecum refers to a legal term meaning "bring with you," often used in subpoenas to compel someone to produce documents. These terms, while relevant in legal discussions, do not convey the idea of legality in the same sense as "de jure."