Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
Color refers to how something looks, not what it actually is. For example, when someone uses their power in a way that seems legal but isn't really allowed, that's called the "color of law." It's like pretending to be something you're not. Other terms related to color include "color of office," "color of title," "colorable claim," and "colorable transaction."
Color, in a legal sense, refers to the way something appears, rather than what it actually is. For example, the term "color of law" refers to the appearance of legal authority or a legal right, even if that authority or right does not actually exist.
These examples illustrate how the term "color" is used in a legal context to describe situations where something appears to be legal or legitimate, but is actually not. This can be a way for people to abuse their power or deceive others, and it is important for the legal system to be able to distinguish between what is truly legal and what is only a "color" of legality.