cognovit clause

cognovit clause definition - legal

n

A contractual provision whereby a party agrees to the entry of a judgment against him in a particular court or courts without any notice or opportunity to present a defense if he should default on his obligations or otherwise breach the contract. The use of such clauses are outlawed or restricted in most states.

Webster's New World Law Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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