Legal Definitions - CON

The term "con" is an abbreviation with several distinct meanings in legal and general contexts:

• 1. Confidence (as in "confidence game")

  In this context, "con" is short for "confidence." A confidence game or con game is a type of fraud where a perpetrator gains the trust of a victim and then exploits that trust to defraud them, typically for financial gain.

  • Example 1: A scammer contacted an elderly person, claiming to be a lottery official, and convinced them that to receive their winnings, they first needed to pay a "tax" and "processing fee." The scammer built confidence by sending official-looking documents and making frequent, friendly calls.
    Explanation: The scammer used a "con game" by first establishing a false sense of trust and legitimacy (confidence) before tricking the victim into sending money.
  • Example 2: An individual created a fake investment company, promising incredibly high returns on a new, exclusive technology. They hosted elaborate presentations and provided forged financial statements to gain the trust of potential investors. After collecting significant funds, they disappeared.
    Explanation: This scenario illustrates a "con game" because the perpetrator meticulously built the investors' confidence in a fraudulent scheme before stealing their money.
  • Example 3: A person approached tourists, claiming to be a plainclothes police officer, and convinced them to hand over their wallets for "inspection" to check for counterfeit currency. The "officer" then returned the wallets, but with cash missing.
    Explanation: This is a "con game" where the perpetrator used a false identity and authority to gain the victims' confidence, allowing them to commit theft.
• 2. Convict (as in "ex-con")

  Here, "con" is an informal abbreviation for "convict," referring to a person who has been found guilty of a crime and sentenced by a court.

  • Example 1: After serving a five-year sentence for bank robbery, the individual was often referred to as an "ex-con" by local media, highlighting their past criminal record.
    Explanation: "Ex-con" is used informally to describe someone who was formerly a convict, meaning they were found guilty of a crime and served time.
  • Example 2: The new rehabilitation program aimed to help "ex-cons" reintegrate into society by providing job training and housing assistance.
    Explanation: The term "ex-cons" refers to individuals who have completed their prison sentences after being convicted of a crime.
  • Example 3: During a background check, it was revealed that the applicant was an "ex-con" with a prior conviction for grand theft auto.
    Explanation: This usage identifies the applicant as someone who has previously been convicted of a criminal offense.
• 3. Contra (as in "pros and cons")

  In this context, "con" is an abbreviation for "contra," meaning "against" or "in opposition to." It is commonly used when discussing arguments or points that oppose a particular proposal, decision, or idea.

  • Example 1: Before voting on the new city ordinance, council members debated the "pros and cons" of its implementation, considering both the benefits and potential drawbacks.
    Explanation: The "cons" in this scenario refer to the arguments or points that are against the proposed city ordinance.
  • Example 2: The legal team presented a detailed analysis of the "pros and cons" of pursuing an appeal, weighing the likelihood of success against the potential costs and risks.
    Explanation: Here, "cons" represents the reasons or arguments that advise against filing an appeal.
  • Example 3: A public interest group published a report outlining the "pros and cons" of a proposed change to environmental regulations, highlighting the negative impacts it could have.
    Explanation: The "cons" in the report detail the arguments and reasons opposing the change in environmental regulations.
• 4. Constitutional (as in "Con. Law")

  When capitalized and followed by a period (Con.), it is an abbreviation for "Constitutional," referring to matters related to a constitution, especially the fundamental principles and laws governing a state or organization.

  • Example 1: The university's law program offered an advanced seminar in "Con. Law," focusing on landmark Supreme Court cases that shaped civil liberties.
    Explanation: "Con. Law" is used as shorthand for Constitutional Law, the field of law dealing with the interpretation and application of a constitution.
  • Example 2: Attorneys specializing in "Con. Law" often represent clients in cases involving freedom of speech or other fundamental rights protected by the Constitution.
    Explanation: This refers to legal professionals whose expertise lies in Constitutional Law, addressing issues related to constitutional rights and principles.
  • Example 3: The judge's ruling on the new state statute raised significant "Con. Law" questions regarding its potential conflict with federal protections.
    Explanation: "Con. Law" questions are those that pertain to whether a law or action aligns with the principles and provisions of a constitution.