Any of various specific mathematical functions that have more or less established names and notations due to their importance.

(US politics, law) A special prosecutor.

(US, politics, law) A lawyer assigned to investigate, and if necessary prosecute, a case for which there is a conflict of interest for the normal prosecuting authority.

plural of special retainer

(law) A fee paid to counsel for work on a particular case.

plural of special counsel

plural of special issue

(law) An issue taken by denying a particular part of the allegations.

(law) A judicial proceeding other than an action, such as a writ of mandamus.

plural of special proceeding