Legal Definitions - amend

To amend means to make a formal change to a document, rule, or proposal. This change can involve adding new information, removing existing parts, or substituting one piece of text for another. The purpose of amending is often to correct errors, update information, or improve clarity and effectiveness. In legal and formal contexts, specific procedures usually govern how and when something can be amended.

• Example 1: Revising a City Ordinance

  A city council is debating a proposed ordinance that would regulate noise levels in residential areas. During the discussion, one council member suggests adding a specific clause that exempts emergency services from these noise restrictions. Another member proposes changing the designated quiet hours from 10 PM to 9 PM.

  Explanation: Both suggestions are forms of amending the proposed ordinance. The first suggestion involves adding new text to the document, while the second involves substituting one time for another within the existing text. These changes formally alter the content of the proposed law before it is finalized.

• Example 2: Updating a Last Will and Testament

  An individual created a Last Will and Testament several years ago. Since then, one of the named beneficiaries has passed away, and the individual has also acquired a significant new asset they wish to leave to a different person. They consult their attorney to make these necessary changes to their will.

  Explanation: The process of updating the will involves amending it. The individual will likely remove the deceased beneficiary and add the new asset and its intended recipient. These formal alterations to the legal document ensure it accurately reflects their current wishes.

• Example 3: Correcting a Court Order

  A judge issues a court order outlining the terms of a settlement between two parties. After the order is distributed, one of the attorneys notices a minor clerical error: a specific date mentioned in the order is incorrect by one day. The attorney brings this to the judge's attention.

  Explanation: To fix the error, the judge would issue an amended court order. This involves formally substituting the incorrect date with the correct one in the official document. This ensures the court's directive is accurate and legally sound.