thresh·old 1 /'thresh-ˌhōld/ n: a point of beginning: a minimum requirement for further action; specif: a determination (as of fact or the existence of a reasonable doubt) upon which something else (as further consideration or a right of action) hinges
the threshold for inquiry
threshold 2 adj: of, relating to, or being a threshold
the threshold issue in a negligence action is whether the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff — Noakes v. City of Seattle, 895 P.2d 842 (1995)
a threshold showing of the need for psychiatric evaluation
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.