Definition

A legal term meaning 'I do not wish to contend' or 'no contest', used in court when a defendant does not admit guilt but accepts punishment.

Example

The defendant entered a nolo plea to avoid a lengthy trial.

Conversation

Did you hear about the case where the defendant pleaded nolo to the charges?

Yeah, I read that it means they aren't admitting guilt, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it can affect the outcome of the trial.

For sure, it’s a unique legal strategy that not everyone knows about.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nolo is derived from the Latin phrase "nolo contendere," where "nolo" means "I do not wish" (from "non" meaning not and "velle" meaning to wish). It is used in legal contexts to indicate a defendant's refusal to contest a charge, effectively meaning they do not wish to fight the charges against them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nolo' as saying 'I do not wish' to fight a legal charge, which helps you remember that it means to not contest something.

Visually Confused Words