De facto

De facto is a Latin expression that means "in fact" or "in practice". It is commonly used in contrast to de jure (meaning "by law") when referring to matters of law, governance, or technique (such as standards), that are found in the common experience as created or developed without or against a regulation.

Related Topics:
Latin - De jure - Law - Governance - Standards

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When discussing a legal situation, de jure designates what the law says, while de facto designates what happens in practice, which may differ.

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The term de facto may also be used when there is no relevant law or standard, but a common practice is well established, although perhaps not quite universal.

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