ADMINISTRATIVE RECORD Meaning and
Definition
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Administrative record refers to a comprehensive documentation of all relevant information and actions taken during the implementation and enforcement of administrative policies and procedures. It is a collection of records and documents that serve as evidence and support for the decision-making processes and activities undertaken by an administrative agency or organization.
The administrative record serves as a crucial source of information in legal proceedings, allowing interested parties to review the basis and rationale behind an agency's decisions. It typically includes correspondence, memoranda, reports, studies, studies, data, meeting minutes, and any other relevant materials that contribute to the decision-making process. These documents are compiled and maintained to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to applicable laws and regulations.
The administrative record offers a chronological account of the actions taken by an administrative agency, allowing external stakeholders or the reviewing body to validate the agency's compliance with established procedures and fair treatment of parties involved. It provides a solid foundation for legal arguments, as it supports and justifies agency decisions or clarifies the facts and circumstances leading to a particular outcome.
Moreover, the administrative record serves as a key resource for future reference, allowing administrators to trace their organization's history, analyze trends, evaluate performance, and identify areas for improvement. It is crucial in maintaining accurate records of administrative decisions and actions, ensuring consistency and preserving institutional memory.
Etymology of ADMINISTRATIVE RECORD
The word "administrative" comes from the Latin word "administrativus", which is derived from "administrare", meaning "to manage, govern, or control". "Administrare" is a combination of two Latin words: "ad", meaning "to" or "towards", and "ministrare", meaning "to serve" or "to manage".
The word "record" comes from the Latin word "recordari", which means "to remember" or "to recall". It derives from the combination of "re-" meaning "again" and "cor" or "cordis", which means "heart" or "memory".
When combined, the term "administrative record" refers to a collection of documents, files, or information related to the management and governance of a particular organization, institution, or legal process. It implies a comprehensive set of records that capture and recall the administrative actions and decisions taken.
