PRELIMINARY INQUIRY Meaning and
Definition
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A preliminary inquiry refers to the initial phase of an investigation or legal procedure undertaken to gather evidence, determine the facts, and evaluate the merits of a case or matter. It can be conducted by various entities such as law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, or administrative bodies.
During a preliminary inquiry, the primary objective is to ascertain whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with a formal investigation or to initiate legal proceedings. This process involves a series of preliminary steps, including interviews, document analysis, evidence preservation, and fact-finding missions. The purpose is to establish the prima facie case, in which there is enough evidence to support a reasonable belief that a crime or violation has been committed.
This inquiry serves as a crucial tool for screening and filtering out weak or frivolous cases, preventing unnecessary investigations or prosecutions, and directing resources more efficiently. It allows authorities to assess the credibility and admissibility of potential evidence, determine the identities of involved parties, and weigh the necessity of further legal action. Additionally, a preliminary inquiry provides an opportunity for the accused or their legal representative to present their side of the story, challenge evidence, and potentially seek case dismissal.
Overall, a preliminary inquiry serves as an essential step in the legal process, allowing for an initial evaluation of the strength and substance of a case before committing to a formal investigation or legal proceedings.
Common Misspellings for PRELIMINARY INQUIRY
- oreliminary inquiry
- lreliminary inquiry
- 0reliminary inquiry
- peeliminary inquiry
- pdeliminary inquiry
- pfeliminary inquiry
- pteliminary inquiry
- p5eliminary inquiry
- p4eliminary inquiry
- prwliminary inquiry
- prsliminary inquiry
- prdliminary inquiry
- prrliminary inquiry
- pr4liminary inquiry
- pr3liminary inquiry
- prekiminary inquiry
- prepiminary inquiry
- preoiminary inquiry
- preluminary inquiry
- preljminary inquiry
Etymology of PRELIMINARY INQUIRY
The word "preliminary" is derived from the Latin word "praeliminarius", which is a combination of "prae" meaning "before" and "limen" meaning "threshold" or "limit". Thus, "preliminary" refers to something that precedes or leads up to the main or definitive action.
The term "inquiry" comes from the Latin word "inquirere", which is a combination of "in" meaning "into" and "quaerere" meaning "to seek". Therefore, "inquiry" signifies the act of seeking or investigating to obtain information or knowledge.
When the two words are combined, "preliminary inquiry" refers to an initial or preliminary investigation or examination that is conducted to gain relevant information or facts before proceeding further with a particular matter.
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