courthouse

[/ˈkɔːrthaʊs/]
nounpl: courthouses
tribunal, fórum, palácio da justiça
1. A building in which judicial courts are held; a public building where legal proceedings take place and judges preside over cases
The courthouse is located in the center of the downtown area.
O tribunal fica localizado no centro da área do centro da cidade.
2. The seat of a county or district court in the United States
Many important cases were tried at the old courthouse.
Muitos casos importantes foram julgados no antigo palácio da justiça.
3. A place where laws are administered and justice is dispensed
The courthouse doors are open to all citizens seeking justice.
As portas do tribunal estão abertas a todos os cidadãos em busca de justiça.
In the United States, the courthouse is an iconic symbol of justice and democracy, often featuring distinctive architecture and serving as a gathering place for civic activities. In Brazil, 'fórum' (forum) is the more commonly used term in legal contexts, while 'tribunal' refers more broadly to courts. The courthouse represents the formal judicial system in both countries and holds significant cultural importance as a symbol of rule of law.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
courtcourthouse buildingjustice buildingjudicial buildinglaw court

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
tribunal, fórum
Most common terms used in legal context throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
fórum, tribunal
Standard usage, same as general Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
fórum, palácio da justiça
Fórum is more frequently used in legal documents and everyday speech
Portugal
tribunal, palácio da justiça, edifício do tribunal
Portuguese usage tends to use 'tribunal' more formally; 'edifício do tribunal' for emphasis on the building itself

Related Words

judgetriallegallawjuryattorneylawsuitverdict

Related Idioms & Phrases

in court
day in court
court of law
before the court
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