actual knowledge

noun | knowl·edge

1. a : awareness or understanding especially of an act, a fact, or the truth : actual knowledge in this entry

   b : awareness that a fact or circumstance probably exists; broadly : constructive knowledge in this entry — see also scienter, willful blindness : constructive knowledge in this entry — see also scienter, willful blindness

   Note: Knowledge fundamentally differs from intent in being grounded in awareness rather than purpose.

   — actual knowledge
   : direct and clear awareness (as of a fact or condition) the bank had actual knowledge that the name and account number referred to different persons : awareness of such information as would cause a reasonable person to inquire further; specifically : such awareness considered as a timely and sufficient substitute for actual notice (as of a work-related injury or of a bankruptcy proceeding) ruled that the employer did not have actual notice or actual knowledge within 90 days

   — constructive knowledge
   : knowledge (as of a condition or fact) that one using ordinary care or diligence would possess had constructive knowledge of the presence of narcotics on his property

   — personal knowledge
   : direct knowledge of a matter or of the truth or falsity of an allegation a witness may not testify to a matter unless evidence is introduced sufficient to support a finding that the witness has personal knowledge of the matter —Federal Rules of Evidence Rule 602

   — superior knowledge
   : knowledge greater than that possessed by another; especially : awareness of a condition or fact that affects another who was not aware of it denied having had superior knowledge of the hazard superior knowledge of a factor in the performance of a contract

2. : the range of one's information, understanding, or expertise answered to the best of his knowledge