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barratry Definition

bar·ra·try (--trē)

noun

  1. Obsolete the buying or selling of ecclesiastical or civil positions
  2. the criminal offense of habitually bringing about quarrels or lawsuits
  3. Maritime Law wrongful conduct on the part of a ship's officer or crew that results in loss to the owners

Etymology: Fr baraterie, orig., misuse of office < barater: see barrator

barratry Related Forms
bar′·ra·trous (--trəs) adjective
barratry Law Definition

n

The persistent incitement or initiation of groundless lawsuits and quarrels. Was a crime under the common law and is a statutory crime in most states. See also abuse of process, champerty, and maintenance.