Verba Fortius Accipiuntur Contra Proferentem Law and Legal Definition
Verba fortius accipiuntur contra proferentem is a Latin maxim that means ‘words must be construed against those who use them.’ When the words of a contract are ambiguous, of two equally possible meanings, they should be interpreted against the author, drafter or writer of the contract and not against the other party.
The words used are to be received and accepted in the strongest sense against the party using them, according to the maxim verba fortius accipiuntur contra proferentem. [Shine's Adm'r v. Central Sav. Bank, 70 Mo. 524, 533 (Mo. 1879)].
