E

Either-Way Offence

An offence for which the accused may be tried by the magistrates or by committal to the Crown Court to be tried by jury.

Employers Liability

The liability of an employer for breach of his duty to provide for his employees competent fellow-workers, safe equipment, a safe place of work, and a safe system of work, including adequate supervision.

Employers Liability Claim

A claim for personal injury arising from harm sustained whilst carrying out duties in the course of employment.

Employment Tribunal

The main forum for resolving an employment dispute between an employee and employer. The claim is made to the employment tribunal following prescribed procedures and is usually resolved at a final hearing Certain employment disputes may also be resolved through the County Courts.

Enduring Power of Attorney

A document giving legal authority for others to conduct your affairs. These have now been replaced by Lasting Powers of Attorney (see below) but will be valid if made before 1 October 2007.

Energy Performance Certificate

Rates your home from A to G on how efficiently it uses energy. This data includes the date, construction and location of the house, and relevant fittings such as heating systems, insulation or double-glazing.

Engross

To prepare a document for signature.

EPA

Equal Pay Act 1970 – requires that men and women be paid the same rate for like employment, or work rated as equivalent, or having equal value.

Equity

The difference between the value of the property and the amounts of any loans secured against it.

Estate

The total value of everything you own at your death, less any outstanding commitments.

European Patent Office (EPO)

Pan-European body responsible for granting patents across Europe.

Ex gratia payment

An ex gratia payment is discretionary, often given as a favour, and not as a result of legal duty.

Exchange

The point at which contracts are exchanged between the buyer and seller. This event creates a binding contract on both the buyer and seller and it is not possible to back out once contracts have been exchanged without risking serious financial penalties.

Exchange of Contracts

Once contracts have been exchanged, each party is legally committed to the transaction and risk regarding the property passes to the buyer.

Exclusive/non-exclusive right

An exclusive right refers to an agreement under which only one person may sell or otherwise use a particular item or permission, often at the exclusion of the person who originally owned it. A non-exclusive right refers to a situation where multiple agents may sell a property.

Executors

The people chosen to implement a persons will.

Express terms

The terms and provisions of a contract that the parties specifically deal with and agree upon.